Letter-perfect

The kids aren't likely to forget the letters L and M.
By MARALINE KUBIK
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
YOUNGSTOWN -- T is for tuxedo.
D is for dress.
The kindergarten class at Youngstown Christian School always does something special to review the letters of the alphabet. The special activity to review the letters L, M, T and D looked more like a tiny-sized high-school prom than a lunchtime outing to McDonald's.
Fourteen pupils put on their finest -- girls wore party dresses, boys wore tuxedos -- and boarded a sleek black limousine Thursday morning for a ride to McDonald's in Brookfield.
The kids aren't likely to forget that L is for limo and M is for McDonald's after such a gala event.
Excitement abounded: Donovan McWilson, 5, was so excited he had a hard time getting to sleep the night before, said his mom, Cynthia McWilson of Youngstown.
When McWilson took her son to be fitted for his tuxedo and shoes, he wanted to take it that day, she said. "We had to explain that we were just going to borrow it and that it would have to be returned."
Ever since, they've been counting down to the big day.
"All of the children were just thrilled. They are so excited," said kindergarten teacher Kathy Llewellyn. "We learn in such a fun way the kids don't even realize that they are learning. This is the biggest thing we've done."
Thought of idea: Rick and Karen Foerster of Youngstown, whose 6-year-old daughter, Missy, is in the kindergarten class, came up with the idea for the formal event to review letters. They also solicited local businesses to provide the necessities.
American Commodore Tuxedo of Boardman provided the tuxedos. Affluent Travel By Snoke & amp; Jesko Inc., Salem, provided the limousine. The Brookfield McDonald's donated lunches and provided a restaurant tour. Bruster's Ice Cream, Poland, provided dessert.
"This is an example of great parent support," Llewellyn said. She didn't make any of the arrangements; the parents did it all.
What's coming up: Plans for other events aren't as grand but may be just as much fun. The kindergartners will celebrate Wacky Hair Day to review the letter W, Silly Socks Day to review the letter S and Pajama Day to review the letter P.
About 400 pupils are enrolled at Youngstown Christian School. The school is at Wychwood Lane and Southern Boulevard on the city's South Side, and serves children in preschool through 12th grade.
kubik@vindy.com