Nellie Bennett Preschoolers go for the Gold at Annual Preschool Olympics

Carrying a torch and sporting shirts emblazoned with the signature interlocking rings of the Olympics, the athletes paraded into a packed gymnasium of cheering fans.

No, this wasn't Vancouver's 2010 Winter Games. It was Nellie F. Bennett Elementary School's 2011 Preschool Olympics, enjoyed by 22 preschoolers from three to five years old.

The annual event, held on March 23, involved the young athletes rotating through a series of twelve non-competitive games as their parents and family members cheered from the sidelines.

"The Preschool Olympic games demonstrate to our students the importance of living healthy, active lifestyles," said Preschool Teacher Judy Pehanick. "Because the games are played individually and are therefore non-competitive, the event celebrates each student’s individual achievement thereby enhancing their self-esteem.

"The students were able to choose to participate in games including a bean bag toss, bowling, running, tricycle riding and jumping among others," she added.

Guiding the preschoolers in their activities were their fourth grade buddies from teacher Julie Blessing’s class.

Located at each game station, the fourth grade students monitored participation and encouraged young athletes.

"Working with the preschool students provides my students with a great opportunity to become role models for their younger peers," said Blessing. "It's a great opportunity for them to learn responsibility, patience, and tolerance."

Blessing said as preschool fourth grade buddies, her students visit with the preschoolers once a week to participate in collaborative activities and projects.

And at the conclusion of the games, the fourth grade buddies joined the preschool students and their families in the all-purpose room for post-event refreshments and a special award ceremony.

Principal James Karaba was joined onstage by Assistant Principal Derek Hulse to present each participant with a medal and star trophy.

Mrs. Blessing's students were also presented with certificates of appreciation for their support of the preschoolers.

"It makes me feel good to see the little ones playing and enjoying themselves," said fourth grader Kevin Conway after receiving his certificate. "We get to play with them which is fun for us and they actually look up to us."

As the fourth grade buddies made their way back to class, they paused to congratulate the preschool students and dole out some well-deserved high fives.

"The Preschool Olympics event promotes Nellie's philosophy of helping kids stay active while recognizing them for demonstrations of good character and sportsmanship," Karaba said. "It is a positive event for the preschool students and their families, and it helps to immerse the young students and their families into the school setting and welcome them to the Nellie family."

To find out more about the Point Pleasant School District, visit the district website at www.pointpleasant.k12.nj.us.