Bulletin Blockbuster!

Ever tried getting young, energetic members of the masculine gender to decorate a bulletin board? The attempt throws the combined trials of the 12 tasks of Hercules into the shade. For ‘boys’ consider it the most undignified task in the world; one that is well beneath their macho image of themselves as action heroes. Only ‘sissies’ and ‘arty-crafty’ types indulge in such demeaning tasks.

We tried everything – cajoling, threats, house points, pleading, raising our voices, commands….. Nothing worked. Week by week, the bulletin boards took on a more bedraggled look as the pictures and charts recycled themselves into oblivion - tattered bits of paper that gradually faded and lost every trace of colour and line. 

So the brain-storming began. What possible incentive could be offered that would overcome this seemingly insurmountable mental block of our young eagles? We cast about, made inquiries, searched the internet, prayed, talked to experts and then prayed a little more. To no avail. Our macho brigade grimly stuck to their stand.  

Then a seemingly inconsequential incident occurred. We were all huddled in the coordinator’s office, earnestly brainstorming, when in marched a class captain, basketball firmly under one arm and a plea in his eye. “Ma’am,” our protagonist pleaded,” our teacher is absent - may we PLEASE be permitted a games period?”

Inspiration struck. With one accord we turned to each other and repeated the magic words,” Games period!!”

And so was born the ‘incentive’. For the class that wins the Bulletin board competition, a “Free Period” Coupon is awarded. It can be ‘encashed’ whenever they want – a dream come true. Freedom at their command. A piece of paper produced and the promise on it honoured. Collect 9 and you can even get a whole day off!

Finally we had found the prize worth fighting for!

The frenetic activity that now precedes the ‘day of judgment’ is worth watching. Creativity at its best! Boys earnestly drawing, colouring, cutting, pasting and decorating. It’s a sight for sore eyes! Not macho? Don’t be stupid. There’s a free period involved! 

And what follows are boards resplendent with colour and vibrant with energy and creativity. Works of art beckoning the passer-by to stop and enjoy their beauty and immerse themselves in the joyous messages that each one carries – for, like everything in our school, there is a value based theme at the heart of all activities. 

So pop into St John’s any time you feel like and enjoy the bulletin boards!