Students from Washington, D.C.'s School Without Walls at Francis Stevens and Truesdell Education Campus embarked today on a week-long trip, in honor of the National Park Service's centennial celebration. Sponsored by National Mall and Memorial Parks, these middle schoolers are visiting sites related to the Civil Rights Movement.
The first stop was at Richmond National Battlefield's Tredegar Iron Works. Students were greeted by Ranger Steph, who welcomed them to the museum and set them up with a mission to complete the Junior Ranger program. They worked in groups, exploring the museum and learning about the park's significance. When they finished their booklets, they were sworn in as junior rangers, proudly wearing their badges. Most also got their first stamps in their National Parks passport book. Before leaving, the group posed with the statue of Abraham Lincoln, a familiar figure from back in Washington, D.C.
After a quick lunch stop, we were on the road to Appomattox Court House National Historical Park. Famous as the site of Lee's surrender to Grant, essentially ending the Civil War, Ranger Ernie spoke with the students about how this historic site fits within the Civil Rights theme of our trip. The D.C. students toured the McLean house, scene of the surrender meeting, guided by students from Appomattox High School, who volunteered to share their knowledge about the park. After a rainy morning in Richmond, we enjoyed beautiful weather during our visit to Appomattox Court House.
Then it was off to Danville, Virginia, for dinner and evening accommodations. Before going to bed, the group from Walls engaged in a lively discussion about their day, sharing interesting facts they learned, what they would like to learn more about, and what they'd most like to share with family back home. Stay tuned for photos from our day and reflections from the students about their first day on the road.
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