Pleasant Street School second-graders serenade city firefighters

By ALANA PERSSON, LACONIA DAILY SUN

LACONIA — The firehouse walls echoed yesterday afternoon, yet not with the usual sound of sirens, but with powerful singing voices. Under the instruction of music teacher, Sam Fortier, the second grade class from Pleasant Street School performed a show for the firefighters to thank them for the service within the community.

Each year, the second grade class performs a musical that is created in conjunction with the curriculum being taught in the classroom. Last year, Fortier planned a show that was themed around rocks and minerals, which he found to be a huge success. This year, however, the teachers suggested he focus on the history of Laconia, which he did.

Fortier created songs that were themed around the spirit and history of Laconia and added conmmentary throughout that showcased the city. The songs talked about the industry of the Lakes Region, the railroads and religious centers, the Belknap Mill, Pumpkin Fest, Bike Week, Fun Spot, the Laconia Public Library and the services that the town offers. One of the services the children sang about was the dedication of the firefighters and police officers.

“The show was awesome,” said Shawn Riley, Deputy Chief of the Laconia Fire Station. “I loved how they came out into the community and incorporated Laconia into the music.”

Riley said that events like these help foster community involvement and make him proud to be a part of Laconia.

Fortier echoed a similar sentiment, as he concluded the show by thanking the many community members, businesses, organizations, and leaders who make Laconia and Pleasant Street School a great place.

“What we do at Pleasant Street School would not be possible without everyone in the community, so I want to thank the community for all they do each day,” said Fortier.

Sam Fortier, music teacher at the Pleasant Street School in Laconia, leads second-graders in song at the Laconia Fire Department on Friday. The performance was meant to be a thank-you to the firefighters to thank them for their service. See video on the Sun's Facebook page. (Alana Persson/Laconia Daily Sun)