A teacher-driven, student-led tradition has begun at the Poplar Bluff Technical Career Center to treat kindergartners on Halloween while providing some early exposure to the programming taught there.

TCC hosted its second annual Little Ghouls, Big Goals trunk-or-treat event for the Kindergarten Center on Thursday, Oct. 29. Due to the rain, however, the program displays were moved indoors.

“We just talked about getting out there in front of young kids, and [incorporating] the fun aspect of the holiday,” recalled event founder Erin Boyer, cosmetology instructor. “Then we thought, ‘What if we bring the Kindergarten Center to our facilities so we can showcase each career?’”

Students in costumes were dropped off by bus at the east end of A-Building, where a "Ghostbusters" replica vehicle was on display, courtesy of the auto mechanics program. Each classroom along the way set up an exhibit representing their trade while passing out treats. Kindergartners exited campus through bubble machines outside of the Culinary Arts Center, where transportation awaited.

“It was the idea of the instructors, and I loved it, having taught kindergarten for many years, and knowing that they learn about topics such as community helpers at that age level,” said Dr. Leigh Ann Cornman, TCC director. “Showcasing careers to the littles and providing that up-close exposure, maybe they’ll remember us during eighth grade or sophomore tours, because we’ll need people of this generation to become our cosmetologists, and learn how to build houses or change oil.”

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Cutline: Cosmetology and esthetician program participants deck out the break room of the TCC as kindergartners make their way through the main building, featuring a surprise around every corner.