Montezuma Sprint students tour Ronald McDonald House and Blank Children’s Hospital

​       Montezuma eighth grade students in Cheri Semprini’s Sprint class spent Wednesday, March 20 at the Ronald McDonald House and touring Blank Children’s Hospital as part of service learning project. Joining Ronald McDonald are, from left, front row: Sophia Semprini and Lauryn Larmore. Back row: Emma Snook, Abbi Henkle, Alexa Rose and Olivia Latcham.

​By J.O. Parker

        Six Montezuma eighth grade Sprint students recently took part in a service learning project at the Ronald McDonald House (RMH) and Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines.
       Sophia Semprini, Lauryn Larmore, Emma Snook, Abbi Henkle, Alexa Rose and Olivia Latcham traveled to Des Moines on Wednesday, March 20 to visit the RMH and Blank Children’s Hospital.
The students are in Cheri Semprini’s class. A service learning project is where the students learn through the process.
      The students raised money this winter by selling hot chocolate and with those funds, they made homemade hand warmers for families at the RMH, baked treats in their guest kitchen and purchased gift items, which included books and toys for Blank Children's Hospital patients.
        The hospital tour included visiting the physical therapy rooms, children's play area, a close-up tour of the NICU, direct conversations with NICU nurses, and learning about the history of the hospital and all that they have to offer for patients and families.
      “I really enjoyed being able to make the treats for the families staying there,” said eighth grader Sophia Semprini. “It allowed me to be able to help other people who are going through a tough time.”
        Lauryn Larmore, an eighth grade student Sprint student, said she enjoyed making the treats and learning about the RMH and what it means to the families to have a place to stay close to their love ones.
        “I thought it was really cool for a place like the RMH for families to go when there is a need and being able to see all the services the hospital has and the therapy options,” said Larmore.
      “It was a wonderful day and the kids learned a lot and a couple of the student began considering career options,” noted Semprini. “It was a rewarding experience for the students. They were able to plan, prepare, and give back to others while learning about the world around them at the same time.”

       Montezuma eighth grade Sprint students in Cheri Semprini’s class enjoy making baked goodies in the Ronald McDonald House guest kitchen on Wednesday, March 20 during the groups visit to Des Moines. In addition to visiting the RMH, the group toured Blank Children’s Hospital. Pictured are, from left: Olivia Latcham, Emma Snook, Alexa Rose, Lauryn Larmore, Abbi Henkle and Sophia Semprini.