Resident Teed Howard, 96, poses for a photo with kindergarten students from Alyson Hanus and Brittany Dunkley’s classes at Sprunica Elementary School. Howard was invited to visit with the students as they celebrated the 100th day of school to talk to them about what it is like to be nearly 100 years old.
Submitted
Resident Teed Howard, 96, was invited to visit with kindergartners at Sprunica Elementary School as they celebrated the 100th day of school to talk to them about what it is like to be nearly 100 years old.
Submitted
Kindergartners at Sprunica Elementary School had a special visitor to celebrate their 100th day of school last month.
Resident Teed Howard, 96, was invited to visit with kindergartners at Sprunica Elementary School as they celebrated the 100th day of school to talk to them about what it is like to be nearly 100 years old.
Since he was celebrating his 96th birthday on their 100th day, Jan. 19, he visited the next day. Children in Alyson Hanus and Brittany Dunkley’s classes had many questions for Howard and he patiently answered every one.
Here are the questions the tiny students asked Howard.
Q: When were you born?
A: I was born Jan. 19, 1926 and weighing just two and a half pounds, I fit in a shoebox.
Q: What was it like in preschool?
A: I was in Mrs. Robinson’s preschool — yes, I still remember my teacher’s name — and I learned to say the Pledge of Allegiance to the red, white and blue American flag.
Q: Did you go to kindergarten?
A: I went to kindergarten where we sat on a rug, learned to count to 100 and listened to my teacher read a chapter of a book every day.
Q: Where did you work?
A: I worked for the Boy Scouts of America organization for 39 years.
Q: What do you like to do?
A: I like to exercise at the YMCA every day. I like to spend time outdoors. I like to read and sing and dance every day. I like to learn about Native Americans and perform Native American dances and songs all over our country.
Q: Did you have cake on your birthday yesterday?
A: Yes, a small one.
Q: Did you blow out the candles and make a wish?
A: Yes, I wished I will live to be 102.
Q: What presents did you get?
A: I got these new socks and this new shirt I am wearing today.
Q: Do you know what eight minus one is?
A: Yes, I think it’s a big seven.
Q: Do you have a guitar?
A: No, but that’s an interesting story.
Q: What did you do to live 96 years?
A: I get lots of exercise and eat healthy food every day.
Q: Do you have any advice for us?
A: Yes. Two things: 1. Smile and be happy. 2. Be inquisitive.
Finally, Aubrey raised her hand and said, “Thank you for being here.” Howard replied, “You’re welcome. It’s a real pleasure talking to you young people.”
