Greenfield Boys Learn Life Skills in Character Club

Nearly two dozen fifth-grade boys at Greenfield Intermediate School tied neckties for the first time at a recent Cougars of Character Club meeting, wrestling with plaid and paisley as teachers cracked jokes and timed their progress.

Teacher Austin Graddy launched the after-school program this year to teach life skills, integrity and service to 11- and 12-year-old boys. When one student complained the knots were hard, Graddy said, "I'm 28 and I still don't get it sometimes. I'm still learning."

Assistant Principal Patrick Crouch and teacher Nathan Lutterman volunteered that day, encouraging the boys and running a tying contest. Lutterman told them, "The only reason we do it right is because we do it wrong 150 times."

The tie lesson prepared the boys for a Ladies and Lads Dance on May 9 honoring their mothers and female role models. The event included dinner and raised money for Riley Hospital for Children.

Club members have jumped a car when a teacher was stranded, raked leaves for neighbors near the school, toured the broadcasting class at Greenfield-Central High School and held mock interviews on camera.

Caitlin Gordon, a teacher whose two sons attend the club, noticed changes at home. "My mom noticed them opening doors for people more," Gordon said. "They're putting more emphasis on being good citizens and leaders."

Graddy said his goal is simple. "I just want these boys to learn how to be good people," he said. "If they're leaving my room trying to improve themselves and help others, then I'm doing my job right."

Principal Bronson Curtis wants the club to continue next year at Maxwell Intermediate School, where GIS students will move after a planned school consolidation.