Retired teachers hold hands-on plant seminar

Students at Alma Schrader stood in front of a banana tree that was part of Truman and Ruth Smith's presentation. Students, back row from left, were Austin Moore, Megan Smith, Andrew Duncan, Jenna Johnson, Dyreanna Merriweather, Dylan Fitzpatrick, Tanazia Williams, Hannah Barker, Riley Peterson, Matlyne Scott, Sara Johnson, Morgan Strong and Kelsey Bennett; front, Madilyn Freeman, Jacob Halter, Jayden Marra and Trebella Sander. (Submitted photo) [Click to enlarge]

Retired teachers Truman and Ruth Smith of Cape Girardeau recently presented a hands-on plant investigation for students at Alma Schrader.

The school courtyard featured plants Truman grew for student's hands-on experience this fall. A banana tree was a class favorite, and the presentation also included sunflowers, elephant ears, cotton, popcorn, potatoes and cantaloupes.

Truman said he would dig up the banana plant roots and store them in the basement for planting next year. Students snacked on the cantaloupes and will do the same with the popcorn once it dries and can be popped.

"Teachers hang it up in the classroom as it dries," Ruth Smith said.

Truman Smith is retired from teaching history at Southeast Missouri State University. Ruth Smith is retired from teaching first grade at Jefferson School.