Grade 8: Fall Trip Inspires Reflection
Eighth graders shared knowledge and creativity this week following their fall trip to study the Civil Rights movement. Through art, they expressed their experiences in a project assignment that allowed them to process what they learned in unique ways. The trip took them to Atlanta, Montgomery, Selma, Birmingham and Memphis, but was a journey of much more than miles alone. It was a journey of understanding, empathy and maturity.
Eighth graders shared knowledge and creativity this week following their fall trip to study the Civil Rights movement. Through art, they expressed their experiences in a project assignment that allowed them to process what they learned in unique ways. The trip took them to Atlanta, Montgomery, Selma, Birmingham and Memphis, but was a journey of much more than miles alone. It was a journey of understanding, empathy and maturity.
A common theme among several student projects was segregation and the concept of "separate but equal" facilities for "colored" people. Others were moved by the Children's March of 1963 and the idea that children can make a difference in the world. Some were inspired by Dr. King's famous "Dream" speech.
Chase Reiman remembered the integration of Central High School in his project, explaining that the event was a turning point when the federal government began sending troops to enforce desegregation in education. Eph Esson focused his project on the march between Selma and Montgomery, saying, "It was amazing to know that events that changed American history happened where we were standing on the Edmund Pettis Bridge." And Waylon Rust found it incredible that peaceful protesters could sit and endure attacks from racist people, and that sit-ins were a form of "fighting" for civil rights.
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A common theme among several student projects was segregation and the concept of "separate but equal" facilities for "colored" people. Others were moved by the Children's March of 1963 and the idea that children can make a difference in the world. Some were inspired by Dr. King's famous "Dream" speech.
Chase Reiman remembered the integration of Central High School in his project, explaining that the event was a turning point when the federal government began sending troops to enforce desegregation in education. Eph Esson focused his project on the march between Selma and Montgomery, saying, "It was amazing to know that events that changed American history happened where we were standing on the Edmund Pettis Bridge." And Waylon Rust found it incredible that peaceful protesters could sit and endure attacks from racist people, and that sit-ins were a form of "fighting" for civil rights.
"This trip is very emotional and heavy," shares Katy Cooper, English teacher, "so it's nice for students to create something artistic that expresses their impressions and feelings. The project also includes an academic and intellectual component as well."
Students wrote about their art, why they chose the theme represented and why they selected the elements included in their memorial piece. Students, faculty and staff were invited to view the exhibit and vote on their favorite pieces of art.
Students wrote about their art, why they chose the theme represented and why they selected the elements included in their memorial piece. Students, faculty and staff were invited to view the exhibit and vote on their favorite pieces of art.
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.
