NEWS Walnut Valley Unified School District
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 880 S. Lemon Avenue
February 20, 2014 Walnut, CA 91789
Tea is Served
WALNUT, CA—The 8th grade class at Suzanne Middle School continued a three decade tradition on February 21.
Over 500 students attended the Blue and White Tea held from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Multi-Purpose Room.
Well-dressed couples arrived arm in arm during five tea services.
Guests dined on cucumber and ham tea sandwiches, fruit, cheese, vegetables and a variety of desserts.
“We actually came up with a new menu this year,” explained Health and P.E. Teacher Marla Rickard.
Language Arts Teacher Ronnie Hee contributes delicious homemade scones each year.
This formal event doesn’t happen without a lot of helping hands.
About 20 parent volunteers, working in shifts, prepped the food in the school kitchen on Thursday.
They came in early Friday morning to begin plating the food. During the tea they were busy re-filling buffet table serving trays and washing dishes between services.
“They’re working hard and really help make this event possible,” said Principal Les Ojeda.
Eight teachers stayed after school on Thursday to decorate the multipurpose room with blue and white centerpieces, garlands, paper lanterns and twinkling lights. There were conversation starters and dessert mints at each table.
The Challenger 8th grade orchestra performed during the tea and 7th grade volunteer hostesses served punch, tea and decaffeinated coffee.
“It’s truly a school-wide event where everyone pulls together,” Rickard said.
“The food is delicious, I love it,” said Vivian Lee, age 14.
“I’m just beyond thrilled, it’s a great day. Our 8th graders really truly look forward to this day, said Charlotte Jenson, an 8th grade social studies teacher.
“The Blue and White Tea is a tradition that I’m so thankful that we are allowed to continue,” Jenson said.
“I think our kids like the whole idea of dressing up and doing something special,” she said.
Students were prepped for the occasion with etiquette lessons held during their P.E. classes.
“It gets them ready for when they start going to formals and fancier restaurants in high school. This event is their test,” Jenson added.
Shown:
Suzanne 8th graders attended the Blue and White Tea on February 21.
Guests dined on a traditional tea menu during the Blue and White Tea.
Couples arrived arm in arm for the Blue and White Tea at Suzanne Middle School held on February 21.