Elaine Loft, Staff Writer
Word Problem: If 15 sixth grade students go to Hannaford with a list of 19 ingredients, then travel 24 miles to Hopkinton, what will be the end result? Answer: An amazing Mexican chicken casserole purchased, prepared, and served to 50 seniors at the Slusser Center in Hopkinton.
Planning for this community service project started in the classroom. After the group came up with the menu (tossed salad, French bread, casserole, vanilla cake with strawberry sauce and whipped cream), Middle School math teacher Tori Lucas distributed the list of ingredients, and the students put their math skills to work to ascertain the exact number of items (think cans of black beans) they needed to purchase in order to produce the desired quantity of food. On the day of the event the group of 15 was divided into three sections, and each had the opportunity to cut and mix and cook, set tables, and chat with the senior citizens. Additionally, because the luncheon took place on February 12, Valentine’s cards were artfully constructed, and delivered to all the guests.
A second group of sixth graders, led by math teacher Michael Jenkins, will again travel to the Slusser Center on February 26 to prepare another carefully calculated meal, delivered with enthusiasm and well wishes.
