PKS STUDENTS LEARN JUGGLING SKILLS

Plantation Key School students from kindergarten through middle school recently participated in Juggling & Balancing workshops led by Bounce and Karen Grant-Margil, and sponsored by the Florida Keys Council of the Arts. Bounce and Karen have made their living as professional jugglers and entertainers for over 30 years, and have toured the United States, Europe, Japan and Saudi Arabia. "This was the third year of our program at PKS and the enthusiasm from every class was very high,” said Bounce. "The kids were great and worked hard attempting to control and juggle three balls. We had a wonderful time teaching at PKS." Bounce and Karen are quick to point out that the art of juggling takes discipline, concentration, focus and effort. Their workshops have demonstrated that juggling improves everyday learning and behavior, and strengthens student confidence. “It is the ultimate physical education skill because it works both the body and the mind equally. Group juggling enhances communication and cooperation skills, and best of all, juggling is an activity where everyone becomes a participant; not just an observer.” Bounce and Karen encourage school faculty to participate in the juggling workshops so that juggling activities can continue in the schools long after the workshops are completed. The sessions consist of a lecture/demonstration and then a hands-on workshop where students attain proficiency in juggling balls, scarves, rings or clubs, as well as working on balancing objects. Finally, the students present performances for the enjoyment of friends, family and local residents of the community. Performances can also serve as fundraisers for the school. With the support of the Arts Council’s Artists in Schools and Special Project grants, the juggling program has expanded to include schools throughout the Keys. This year’s juggling workshops have been presented at Key Largo School, Switlik School, Sugarloaf Elementary and Middle Schools, Big Pine Key Academy and Montessori Key West. For more information, contact the Florida Keys Council of the Arts at [phone removed] or visit www.keysarts.com.