Penn Elementary School: Inspiring young S.T.A.R.s with magic, motivation

Penn Elementary School recently held a “Yes I Can” assembly led by Cris Johnson, a school assembly program performer. During this character-building event, Johnson talked about how every student can be a “S.T.A.R.” by keeping these key ideas in mind:

• Special – Every student deserves to feel good about themselves and can help others feel positive too.
• Talent – All students have unique talents or abilities that make them important, even if they haven’t discovered them yet.
• Anything – With perseverance, every student is capable of achieving great things.
• Respect – The importance of giving respect in order to receive it.

Johnson included plenty of audience participation in the assembly, adding magic tricks to reinforce his messages. He even customized a different show for students in grades KG-2, ensuring everyone was engaged.

Erin Schneider, counselor at the school, praised the event, “Cris Johnson’s ‘Yes I Can’ assembly was energetic and built character — our students loved it! He used the S.T.A.R. formula to share an impactful message with magic, humor, and lots of audience involvement.”

Students also shared their excitement. Amin, a third grader, reflected, “It was good. He made us laugh. He encouraged us to behave well at school, home, and in class."

Klenam, a second grader who participated in the show, noted, “I felt really happy and like I’d be remembered all year.”

Ellie, a first grader and participant, exclaimed, “I thought it was impressive! How did he do that?”

The S.T.A.R. formula not only encouraged students to believe in themselves and their abilities but also reinforced a positive school climate and culture.