Juggling New Skills in Physical Education

Step right up! Step right up! Witness the spectacular Somers Intermediate School Circus Arts!

The Circus Arts curriculum in physical education classes has always been a favorite with students. It challenges students’ balance, coordination, and perseverance in a fun and creative way as they try to master new skills.

Each class period, students moved through a series of stations, each focusing on a different skill. Activities included juggling, plate spinning, rings, rhythm sticks, ropes, and balance boards. Regardless of whether the skill is strength, balance, or coordination-related, each comes with its own challenges to overcome.

“We learned juggling, plate spinning, and ropes,” said James Oldis. “My favorite was the rings. We had to swing across them. I got it on my first try.”

The most challenging skill, according to students, was the juggling station. Students started their juggling practice by learning how to correctly toss a single scarf in the air before adding a second and third. Once the three scarves were successfully juggled, students moved on to bean bags, then tennis balls, and finally rings. If students completed nine cycles of three rings, then their names were added to the Juggling Champions list posted on the gym door.

“We learned how to juggle,” said fourth grader Isabela Dizdari. “If you can juggle the rings, then you become a champion juggler.”

Before beginning their skills, students and teachers discussed why the circus is important to Somers’ town history. The Elephant Hotel in the center of town is a historic site. Hachaliah Bailey, founder of Bailey Circus, is known for having the first traveling exhibition of animals. He built the Elephant Hotel as a memorial to his exotic animals,

including “Old Bet,” the African elephant that started his circus. Not only does practicing circus arts develop physical skills, but it also encourages confidence and connects students with their local community in a unique way.

“They’ve been doing circus arts in the district for many years,” said teacher Jamie Pryschlak. “The 3^rd Saturday of April is World Circus Day, so it ties into that as well as our local community of Somers.”