Clowning Around

NEA Today, Mar 2004 by Subramanyam, Urmila

Jason Harnson is, and always will be, the type of person who likes to work a crowd.

THE SEVENTH-GRADE SCIENCE and Social studies teacher at Garrison Middle School in Walla Walla, Washington, has spent his life entertaining, whether he's in the classroom or in the rodeo arena, where he performs as a clown.

As a rodeo clown, Harrison performs short acts designed to interest the sport's youngest fans. His impromptu songs-which change with the rodeo's location-quirky dance steps, and acrobatic stunts always bring the crowd to its feet. Harrison believes it's important to draw each child into the fun and make the child feel important. It's a philosophy that holds true both in the arena and in the classroom.

"The key is to make every child feel wanted and to get them involved from the very beginning. If you have that connection with the kids, you're set," Harrison says.

Harrison began his rodeo career by "attempting" bull riding, but he quickly changed over to team roping. "I learned that I didn't have the same passion for it as other riders," Harrison says. So, at the suggestion of one of his friends, he decided to see if he could make it as a rodeo clown. After three years of performing, he hasn't looked back. The reactions he gets from the audience rev him up every time he steps into the arena.

"The excitement of entertaining-to see kids react to you so positively-that's one of the greatest parts of what do," Harrison says.

- URMlLA SUBRAMANYAM