Educators display material at fair

Fewer people showed up for Carson City's first Education Fair than there were booths.

"It's a great concept," said school board president Bob Crowell. "I wish more people were here."

But Jeff Greb, president of the Ormsby County Teacher's Association, could still see positive results.

"It's great just to meet between educators," he said. "We're trying to learn from this year. Hopefully next year we can get the word out to the community."

Teacher Irene Waltz was not deterred by the lack of people. She took advantage of information offered at the 53 booths to take back to her colleagues at Fritsch Elementary School.

"I heard that there were going to be all these wonderful things about education," she said. "I wanted to be a part of that to make certain I can find the best things for kids."

Glenda Pitts works as a substitute teacher and has four of her own children. She attended the fair to see the services available.

"As a mom, it's important to know what they're learning," she said. "They need to prepared for each step up until college."

The fair was designed to help parents, students and teachers discover the range of services available for youth within and outside of the school system. Booths included organizations such as 4-H, scouts and the Army as well as services including school supply stores.

Carson High School's culinary arts students also prepared a display along with samples of truffles and Zclairs for visitors.

But Joey Padilla, 17, said it was more about satisfying appetites.

"This is a career pathway, not just a place to eat," he said.

Representatives from Carson-Tahoe Hospital were on hand to educate parents, teachers and students of health concerns ranging from diabetes to asthma.

"Just taking care of sick people isn't enough anymore," said Jeanne Ross, respiratory therapist. "Our focus is moving toward education and prevention."

Jasson Hidalgo, 17, and other interpreters were available for any Spanish speakers.

"They have the same rights as any other parents," he said. "They need to hear about everything that's here and going on in the community."

Despite the weak turnout, fair coordinator Shawn Schneider is not daunted.

"It's a chance to celebrate education and to let the community know the great things that are happening in education," she said. "We all have a stake in how our kids turn out. In order to make sure they're successful, it takes all of us."