HOULKA - The annual Fall Festival saw a change of time and venue this year for students at Houlka Attendance Center, but no lack of fun and games. The special day was sponsored by the Houlka Organization for Pupil Excellence, which serves as the Parent/Teacher/Community alliance for the school. The festival has traditionally been held at night, but with the busy schedules of parents and student, attendance had been falling off, so this year's event was scheduled as a day-long amp"rewardamp" for students. Overcast skies sent the event inside the field house, but the youth and parents attending and the sponsors found plenty of room for fun.

The Free and Frontline high school club members assisted with the event, running games for younger children with a loftier goal in mind.

amp"We try to be a positive influence on the younger kids,amp" said member Corey Pulliam.

The smoke/drug free club is required to earn community service hours and racked them up making signs for the event to post around the schools and taking a hands-on approach to the younger students.

amp"It teaches the kids right from wrong and shows them not to do drugs or get involved in drinking,amp" said student Christina Cooper.

Club member Kristen Woodard echoed the message.

amp"We're role models for the little kids,amp" Woodard said.

As students traded in tickets for games, treats and turns on the inflatable slide, the funds raised are earmarked to go back into the school. HOPE sponsors the student of the week, which are published in the Chickasaw Journal, and has worked on school beautification projects. Upcoming plans include fencing for the lower elementary facilities, decorative ironwork displays and covering the remainder of the walkway between the lunchroom and the elementary campus.

Following the first nine weeks of study, all students at Houlka Schools enjoyed a break and a day off for fun.