Photo Flash: Florence Henderson Visits La Quinta Middle School

When Janet Seto, Principal of La Quinta Middle School (78-900 Avenue 50, La Quinta, CA 92253), contacted the a multi-talented actress, talk show host, performer, recording artist, author, Broadway veteran and Smithsonian inductee, Florence Henderson with a request to address students at La Quinta Middle School with a motivational speech inspiring them to reach their goals, America's favorite mom gladly said yes. Expecting a moderate turn out, Ms. Henderson was overwhelmed to see a response of almost 700 to hear her speak. The assembly had to be moved outdoors to accomodate the crowd.

"You would have thought the Jonas Brothers were coming," said La Quinta Middle School teacher Laura Spradlin, ".....the excitement in the air is still there today. She was so captivating....from explaining how to go through life with open hands instead of closed fists to giving a young girl her earrings to singing acapella!! She thrilled them.....and then the lines of children wanting a hug from her. Everyone was just blown away."

In preparation of the TV Icon's appearance, the school band, under the direction of Joan Gubler, had been rehearsing the Brady Bunch theme song and the Sign Language Class, taught by Robin Merritt had learned to sign the song. In addition, the Language Arts classes had previously taught standards-based lessons using selected Brady Bunch TV shows. Research reports had been prepared by students comparing the contrast of the Brady Bunch Family with families of today; The effects of "blended families", as well as plot, character, theme, & setting analysis. In addition, comprehensive biography's had been done on Ms. Henderson by classes. Community & District dignitaries were in attendance to witness this unique and rare opportunity for the students.

In response to Thursday, March 19th's assembly at 12:23pm (yes that's right 12:23pm ... no one was going to question the principal), students had to say

"Ms. Henderson was so sweet and awesome. She really made me feel a lot better because I was having another one of those bad days. She was talking about how sometimes you might be mad at your mom and That is exactly what happens to me sometimes. She kind of had a childhood like me. I am poor too, and I hope to become successful like her. I am never going to give up."-Luisa Hernandez/8th grader

"I learned from Ms. Henderson that you can affect people's lives just by saying hello. I have tried what she said and it has showed improvement in my life in only one day. Now, everytime I walk down the halls I'll smile at people or stop and say hello. My teachers are being nicer because I'm being polite and showing respect to them. I am doing all this because of what Ms. Florence Henderson said in her speech."-Miguel Arias/8th grader

"Ms. Henderson is an amazing woman and someone all people can look up to, especially me. I had always thought that famous people have it made, that they are born into a rich family and anything they want will be done...and that's not the case. I have realized that you don't have to be rich or poor to have all you hopes and dreams come true. And I admire her for all her hard work. Something I tell myself all the time..."If you believe you can achieve", and that's what the beautiful Ms. Henderson did!"-Amanda Torres 8th grader

The gratitude poored in from student as early as the next morning in the form of letters saying ...

"Dear Ms. Henderson, I just want to thank you for coming to la Quinta Middle School. I enjoyed your speech a lot. first, I want to tell you your speech was awesome. I liked how you talked about your life and gave us advice on what we want to do when we grow up. Next, I think you were very nice, kind ,and sweet for giving that girl your favorite earrings. I would have just given her a hug and said happy birthday. Finally, thank you for the hug you gave me. It really meant a lot to me. We will miss you. I hope you come another day. Love, Bianca Ramirez"

"Dear Ms. Henderson, I would like to say thank you for coming to La Quinta Middle School. I know that you have a really busy schedule. Thank you for putting in the time for our school. I think that you are beautiful and so amazing. When you were giving advice to a girl about being a singer, I listened real well because I love to sing. You really made a great impression on me. I appreciate all the things you told us. You are such a great singer. I am going to take your advice, "It is better to give, than to receive. It's better to give and then you will receive. That's the best advice I have heard in a long time. Sincerely, Rosa Ramos"

"Dear Ms. Henderson, Thank you for coming ot our school. I think that the speech inspired all the kids in school. I learned from you, Ms. Henderson, that I have to be nice to other people and to open my hands to the world when an opportunity comes to me. But there was something better that I heard from you and that is to follow my dreams, and again thank you for coming to our school and I think that you are cool. With love, Jesus Cazares"

ONe Young man in particular asked Florence to sign a photo he had, to which she received a thank you the very next day saying "Dear Ms. Henderson, I appreciate what you did for us. First, you showed us so much enthusiasm. You shared your experiences with us. I liked when you said that we should not let weeds grow around our dreams. You also said that you were poor, but your dreams still came true. That is like me. You and the Brady Bunch are my heroes and taught me a lot of things. I will always remember you for that. Thank you for coming to our school and making us famous. I especially loved getting a hug from you. Sincerely, Your biggest fan Jose Monje"

Florence also received notes from staff members such as Robin Merritt saying "Words can not express how grateful I am. Your speech motivated me just as much as it did the students, if not more!"

When initially asked to make the appearance, Florence thought "What can I say that would be truly meaningful to these middle school students. I have to admit, I was more than a little nervous," but after the experience added "This has been one of the most rewarding experiences, I have had in a long time."

Photos by Val Fellerson

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