It has been decades since Wilmer Poteate, Doc Thrush, H.L. Marks, Don Super and Ben Pester were youngsters in search of the right classroom on the first day of school. But they accepted helping Cooke Elementary students with the challenge. Armed with room lists and student names, the five Kiwanis Virginia Beach-Combers members faced the rush Sept. 4. Pictured right are H.L. Marks, Wilmer Poteate and Don Super. Not pcitured are Doc Thrush and Ben Pester.

Marks, Super and Pester manned the upstairs hall, and Poteate and Thrush were downstairs. Soon all were on one knee to better relate to students - and to hear them. "We're at a disadvantage because, at our age, we can't always hear them or understand them," said Super, who is also the local president.

One student stopped and asked for room 211. Marks and Super put their heads together while scanning lists. "He's on the list," said Marks. "You need to go down that hall, and you'll see your teacher waiting for you." Marks walked the student partway down the hall.

Super knelt to talk to a small girl who nervously chewed the end of her ponytail. "You'll be alright now," he said, peering over his glasses to check the list. "We're going to help you find your new room."

The Kiwanis Virginia Beach-Comber members have served previous missions at Cooke. During the school year, members read weekly to students and take part in the TERRIFIC Kids program, which recognizes students and promotes character development, self-esteem and perseverance.

TERRIFIC is an acronym that stands for thoughtful, enthusiastic, respectful responsible inclusive, friendly, inquisitive and capable.

Pester said the Kiwanis' involvement in the reading program also kicked off during the first week of school. "We really feel like we're accomplishing something when we come here," he said. "I just enjoy being with the kids."

Principal Barbara Sessoms was particularly grateful for the men's help on the first day of school. "You can't put a price tag on what people like them do for us," she said. "They're a grandfather image for us, and they provide stability and wisdom for our students. They are definitely needed."