Area elementary school students were invited to campus to enjoy their own SpringFest activities in an attempt to bridge USI and the local communities.

Over 700 elementary school students from seven local elementary schools flooded the valley parking lot on Friday. The students were treated to free carnival rides, a free lunch and a special free performance from Miami-based hip-hop duo Black Violin.

“It was the first time we had done it,” Buecher said. “It was really well received.”

Buecher said the idea was Provost Ronald Rochon’s ‘baby.’

“His enthusiasm made it a walk in the park,” Buecher said.

Students and teachers from Lincoln Elementary, Evansville Day School, Joshua Academy, Fairlawn, Evans Middle School, South Terrace and North Elementary School from Posey County attended the special day.

“It was a last-minute idea, but we’re contemplating doing it again,” said Joe Giannini, executive committee director.

The field trip made many students and faculty happy, Buecher said.

Buecher said he received a very special thank you from a special education teacher who attended the field trip with her class. “She wrote ‘today was a very special day for my special students,’” Buecher said, quoting the email. “My students were allowed to dance and jump and act normal…it brought tears to my eyes. It will forever be in my memories.”