Steve & Cluckers

Not sure why South Mountain Elementary School is so enamored of rubber animal rewards, but Greta seems to like them. The kid who best exemplifies the Seven Goals posted on the gym wall gets to take home a fish named Steve until their next gym class. They are encouraged, ala Flat Stanley, to take a photograph of themselves with Steve. Here's where it gets tricky. If Steve is not returned by the previous recipient, the new recipient gets to take home a rubber chicken named Cluckers. Which rhymes with, well, you get the idea. Here are the Seven Goals of gym class -- which seem more like 10 to me:

• Always be prepared for class. Sneakers are a must.
• Move carefully, watch for others moving around you.
• Always show good sportsmanship. Be a team player.
• Always listen to directions and follow them carefully. Safety first!
• Always use put ups, NEVER put downs!
• Always try your hardest and never give up. Show perseverance.
• Always transition in a smooth and quiet manner.

Greta instructed us to lay Steve next to her when she fell asleep.

A week later Greta won Steve again, but came home with Cluckers when someone -- she can't remember who so I can't call them out here -- forgot to return Steve!