Sesame Street Comes to Harvard Avenue

On May 20, Sonia Manzano—Maria from Sesame Street—visited Tuscan Elementary on Harvard Avenue in Maplewood. Manzano thrilled Tuscan's first grade and kindergarten classes with familiar songs and a reading from her own children's book "A Box Full of Kittens." Her 37 years as a writer and performer on Sesame Street were evident in her masterful touch in captivating the children's attention—though not in her remarkably ageless and beautiful person.

After the assembly, Manzano joined the children for a reception in Ms. Cynthia Vengraitis's first grade class.

Manzano visited Tuscan School courtesy of a parent in Ms. Vengraitis's class, Lisa Stamm, who won the visit at a charity event. Ms. Stamm works for Project Sunshine, a nonprofit organization that provides free educational, recreational, and social programs to children and families living with medical challenges. Ms. Manzano often supports this organization.