MANVILLE: Class outing to diner gained some side lessons

To the editor:
   On behalf of the staff and students of the Alexander Batcho Intermediate School and Manville High School multi-disabled classrooms, I would like to thank patron Ken and the staff at the Manville Diner for their hospitality and kindness.
   The ABIS/Manville High School multi-disabled classroom (10 students and four adults) went on a trip to the Manville Diner on Nov. 14. The students had a great time with their friends and used appropriate behavior in the social setting. The objective was to teach our students to handle purchases appropriately and learn about tipping in the community setting.
   A customer sitting near our group asked the cashier to add $50 to his bill to pay for part of our tab. He said he didn’t have a lot, but wanted to share with our students. All we know is that he is a regular at the diner and his name is Ken.
   Mrs. Nancy Persing, the students and I were moved by this man’s generosity and kindness. In addition, the staff at the Manville diner were extremely patient and kind to our students and gave the group a $20 gift certificate to come back.
   Our students utilized their math skills and learned a valuable lesson in kindness of their community.
   We will be making cookies and a thank you card for Ken; the diner has promised to pass these on.
   Sometimes good things go unnoticed and this one was too good to keep.
Erin L. Shannon
Alexander Batcho Intermediate School
Manville