Celebrating a Century: Orangethorpe Elementary Commemorates 100 Days of School with a Centenarian Guest, Margaret Louise Giles (seen top center with sash), in the multi-age classrooms of teachers Mrs. Karcher and Mrs. Keller.

On the 100th day at Orangethorpe Elementary, Margaret Louise Giles, who has lived through a century of history, stepped into Mrs. Karcher and Mrs. Keller’s multi-age classrooms. Many students and teachers dressed up as centenarians to celebrate.
The children were mesmerized by Marge’s remarkable stories shared with a kind smile and an adventurous spirit. Students were curious about Marge’s 100 years of life and learned many things as she sat in the “hot seat.”

The questions ranged from asking about her favorite food to learning about her greatest accomplishments.
Born on January 9th, 1925, Marge grew up in an era without television, refrigerators, or washing machines. When asked what the secret is to last 100 years, she referred back to childhood memories of being active, out in nature, and having the freedom and time to seek adventure.

In case you were curious, Marge’s favorite color is blue, she loves Italian food and would love to one day travel to England and France. Her favorite subject in school was gym class and she spent lots of time as a child at the swimming pool, skating, and playing “Kick the Can.”

Orangethorpe Elementary is a part of the “B.I.S.O.N. Herd,” which stands for Be Intentional So Others Notice. To recognize the incredible accomplishment of living 100 years, Marge was honored with a special B.I.S.O.N. award, a limited edition B.I.S.O.N. tee shirt, and a handmade flower bouquet created by a small group of students.

Students applauded and thanked her for sharing her century of wisdom, most memorably Marge’s guidance to stay active and seek adventure. With hearts full and minds inspired, Orangethorpe Elementary’s 100th day became a celebration of both past and future, proving that learning truly has no age limit. We are all looking forward to seeing Marge again next year on the 101st day of school!