Sixth graders in Mrs. Fort’s classes learned how to test water samples during their 4-H Lesson. Image: Bonnie Tillotson/Contributed

In our fast-paced society, the art of reading is still an important skill!

Recently, students in Mrs. Fort’s 6th Grade Language Arts Class got to participate in two hands-on 4-H activities that reinforced the importance of reading to the book they finished reading. The students learned how to make Old Fashioned Molasses Cookies from scratch, and conducted water quality tests.

This program is made possible through a grant from the Walter Payne Foundation. 4-H Agent Bonnie Tillotson, brought to the classroom recipes, equipment and supplies, transforming the classroom into a kitchen. Then, with help from Mrs. Fort and a 4-H Adult Volunteer, the students were instructed on how to prepare the cookies, step-by-step. The Appomattox Middle School cafeteria staff graciously provided baking trays and the cart for them to go on. As the students finished making their recipe, they put the cookies on the tray and the 4-H Agent wheeled them down to the cafeteria, where they were baked. The students then got to take their cookies home, as well as a copy of the recipe.

There’s more to this in the current issue of the Times Virginian newspaper. Support local journalism by purchasing the issue at a local newsstand or subscribing at www.timesvirginian.com/subscriber_services to receive the print edition or view the full article in the e-edition version.