Magnolia seventh graders learn to “Ditch the Screen” at hobby fair.
Seventh graders at Magnolia Middle School recently had the chance to see if they have a “green thumb,” play pickleball, and create some artwork during the “Ditch the Screen: Ignite Your Dreams” hobby fair hosted by the 2024 Provisional Class of the Junior Auxiliary of Meridian.
The “Ditch the Screen: Ignite Your Dreams” hobby fair aims to inspire middle school students to explore creative, hands-on activities that encourage curiosity, social interaction, and active play—away from screens. The Junior Auxiliary of Meridian’s 2024 Provisional Class’s goal is to ignite a passion for new hobbies, promote real-world connections, and empower students to discover their talents and interests in a fun, screen-free environment. Through interactive exhibits, workshops, and challenges, we strive to help young people develop lifelong skills while fostering balance in their digital lives.
“We are bringing in three different hobbies — gardening, drawing, and pickleball,” said Shelby Crouch, JA of Meridian Member. “Our main goal for the hobby fair was to be able to introduce a new and up and coming hobby/sport that is gaining popularity in our city.”
Through fundraising, JA donated two fully moveable pickleball courts to Magnolia Middle School. Each set includes everything to set up games along with 16 paddles and 48 balls.