Report of Missouri Farmers' Week. 229 



There should be a screen in front of the outhouses. Probably 

 the most indecent and disgusting thing found in Missouri today is 

 the average closet at the rural school. It will cost but a few dol- 

 lars to put a screen in front. Vines can be trained to grow over 

 this, and will add much to the general appearance of the yard. 



The interior of these houses chould receive attention. They 

 should be thoroughly scrubbed out. Two of the older students, a 

 boy and a girl, should be appointed to see that these are kept in a 

 proper condition. 



Prevention of Unnecessary Dirt. — When everything has been 

 cleaned well, the task of keeping it clean will be much easier. Still, 

 it will not keep itself, and each pupil must help. So what are the 

 ways in which we can help do this? Of course, each can have a 

 part in. the daily care. If each has just one little task, probably 

 not taking more than five minutes for its completion, the work will 

 be easier for all. But can we help in any other way? Yes, each 

 should do his or her part in keeping things clean. 



How many of you bring in unnecessary mud on your shoes ? 



How may this be prevented? 



Have you any scrapers at the door to help in the cleaning of 

 your shoes? 



Have you anything upon which the shoes can be wiped ? 



How many of you are careful about this at home ? 



Are you careful in using the blackboard, not to scatter the 

 chalk dust any more than possible? 



Daily Care of ScJwolroom. — The most important item in the 

 daily care is, probably, the attention to the stove. At least, the 

 stove in itself may be the source of so much dirt that it has a 

 large share in determining the order of work. Preferably, it should 

 be attended to the evening before. As soon after school is out as 

 possible, the ashes should be shaken, down and removed, and if the 

 stove is sufficiently cold, a fire laid for the next day. While this 

 is being done the room should be well aired. Clean the blackboard 

 and the chalk tray. Sweep the room thoroughly. About once a 

 week a mopping with hot water should follow the sweeping. 



Are you careful not to scatter scraps of paper over the floor? 



Have you a box or basket in the schoolroom where waste paper 

 can be put? 



What happens to the papers and apple cores outside? Are 

 they allowed to be scattered at will, or is there provided some thing 

 in.to which they can be put ? 



