popular with sighted persons, the instructor should have adjustable ropes or wires and other inexpensive apparatus that make such games possible. Partially sighted boys and girls can adjust themselves to the games of the sighted, those entirely blind must have some means of play that will lead them to forget themselves for awhile. Only so can a blind person obtain full freedom of movement and grace of carriage. It is hoped that some provision will be made for greater facilities for play and games. Swinging from a height and dropping on a pile of soft mats has been very popular with all classes-even with the kindergarteners. The same may be said of the obstacle and relay races among the junior and senior boys-races devised by having a sighted and blind boy run together, jumping over and running around respectively covered apparatus placed near the four corners of the gymnasium. The kindergarten class has been given special exercises for the chest and shoulders. Each child has been encouraged to think of the benefits of the exercise while doing it, and it is encouraging to know that some have actually remembered and tried to carry out my instructions when they were not in class. The primary classes have done dumb bell and floor work. The intermediate have been given calisthenics and wands; the intermediate boys, calisthenics and dumb bells. The junior and senior boys have taken up calisthenics, dumb bells, floor work, and apparatus work of all kinds; and the senior girls have devoted their attention to calisthenics, wands, floor work and chest weights. In all this there has been a constant endeavor to give all-round development, special prominence being given to movements that lift, expand and make the chest more flexible. No pupil, or class of pupils, has received attention to the detriment of others. It is a source of regret that we have had such a backward spring. The cold, wet weather and lack of proper apparel among the pupils have made it impossible to do satisfactory field and track work. Notwithstanding this, our boys showed very good form and endurance at the track meet held June 14th. Respectfully yours, C. E. EWING. |