Grade 8: Finding Context Close to Home
Before traveling to the American South in November, Grade 8 students explored Colorado’s civil rights history during a visit to Lincoln Hills near Pinecliffe, CO. Founded in 1922, the mountain resort offered Black families a place to vacation during an era when discrimination limited their access to many recreational spaces.
Eighth graders took a history hike through the property, visiting Winks Lodge, Winks Tavern, and historic cabins. They also practiced communication and teamwork by building shelters using only natural materials from the forest floor.
The visit helped students connect their classroom studies with Colorado’s history and understand that segregation and discrimination extended beyond the South.
“Lincoln Hills is an excellent example because it reminds us of Colorado’s own history in regard to segregation and discrimination,” Grade 8 History Teacher Mr. Ben Simmons said.
As additional preparation for their November trip, students visited New Hope Baptist Church near Graland to learn about the importance of Baptist and African Methodist Episcopal churches before and during the Civil Rights Movement. They also had the opportunity to hear from Graland grandparent Carlotta Walls LaNier about her experience as one of the Little Rock Nine, who desegregated Little Rock Central High School in 1957.
Together, these experiences will give eighth graders local context and personal perspectives to draw on as they visit historic sites and continue their learning in the American South.
We’re looking forward to sharing photos from their trip in next month’s Mashup!
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
