Seniors, Kids Both Fit In Here

At the senior center in Westminster a performance of the chicken dance by enthusiastic children and seniors is not an uncommon sight.

For a few hours every day, recreation rooms at the center--usually reserved for bridge and mah-jongg--become classrooms, and senior citizens become teachers.

“The children love to do the chicken dance,” said 77-year-old Helen Ekovich, who instituted the dance as a fun activity when she became an after-school teacher.

Ten senior citizens work with 65 children after school, helping first-, second- and third-grade students with their homework.

The majority of children speak English as a second language, and their elementary school teachers have referred them to the program to get special attention.

The seniors encourage the children to improve their vocabulary and confidence through lessons, song and dance.

“I’m so proud of my first-graders,” Ekovich said. “You can really see the improvements.”

Many of the children need the attention the seniors provide, said Ekovich, who volunteered in the program for seven years before she was hired as a teacher. But Ekovich is not in it for the money.

“I find fulfillment in this,” she said. “I told Betty I should pay to work here.”

Betty Goyne, a former teacher who works as the supervisor at the senior center, conceived the program eight years ago.

“It’s primarily underachieving students who have difficulties with basic reading and math skills. Some lack confidence,” Goyne said. “It’s a multifaceted program. Teachers indicate what students need, and we try to provide it.”

She canvassed local organizations for funds for the teachers’ salaries. Recently, Soroptimists International of Westminster donated $27,000. The 10 teachers who work full-time receive $6 an hour.

“We primarily hire low-income seniors,” Goyne said. “For some, this is their first job.”

Goyne initially designed the program to help seniors become active in the community again, but the program now meets the needs of seniors and students alike, she said.

“There’s just a really good rapport between the two age groups.”

Louise Roug can reached at (714) 966-5977