A Look at Lakeside's Past

Students in Beth Sandford’s classroom at Lemon Crest got a first hand look at Lakeside’s past by Skyping with Edna Kouns, a 102 year old Lakeside resident. Students wrote down questions in advance, then took turns asking them as they spoke to Edna through a computer screen which was projected onto the Smartboard. Edna, who was located at the Lakeside Historical Society, could see the students in Mrs. Sandford’s class through a laptop using Skype.

Edna loved the opportunity to share her experiences of growing up in Lakeside with the 3^rd grade students. “Miss Edna” was delighted with the student reactions when they learned that she never had a telephone while growing up, and that she used to ride a horse or in a buggy when she wanted to go places. One of the students asked Miss Edna what technology she used when she was younger. When they learned that she didn't use any they were amazed! The students could hardly even imagine such a world!

Hearing about how Edna’s family was affected by the flood,  Marlea said, “I couldn’t believe her whole house floated away in the flood!”

Another student, Matthew said,”I really enjoyed hearing that she would go to the Lakeside Inn, and that she had picnics with the orphans (at El Monte Park) and that they ate a lot of watermelon!”

Liam remarked, “I learned that she got to watch the cars when they raced around Lindo Lake.”

I know that the purpose for the Skype was to put students in touch with Lakeside's history, but in my opinion it was equally important for Edna. She knew she was valued, and that people really cared about what she had to say. She was thrilled to be able to talk to the students, and equally amazed at the technology that allowed her to connect through Skype. Edna is a former teacher in Lakeside. It was very apparent how much cared for her students as she shared stories from her days in the classroom At one point she taught the 3^rd grade students what her mother had taught her, "If you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all!"

Edna Kouns can be found every Wednesday morning at the Lakeside Historical Society around 10:00. So if you would like to hear a story or two about Lakeside’s past, drop on by. You will not be disappointed! 

Posted by LUSD Digital Learning Coach, Kay Little