Highland 5th Graders, led by teachers Ryan Cortum and Jill Strubee, trekked from the Elementary School down to the museum on Thursday, May 11.  Although it was a warm day, energy, enthusiasm, and interest were not in short supply.  

The new Delta Shield was the first thing they saw as they rounded the bend, and it was the perfect place for a photo!  The students split into four groups to rotate through the museum displays, historical and ‘future’. 

Interactive Star Trek displays are always a big hit and the students had time to view historical displays highlighting the railroads, century farms, Boy Scouts, and the churches.  Museum volunteers explained the exhibits and answered questions.  

Each group reconnoitered in Railroad Park and walked to the Veterans Memorial Park.  Many of the fifth graders raised their hands when asked if they had a veteran in their family and read the messages on the monument.  One student felt moved to read aloud the “Freedom Isn’t Free” poem inscribed on one side to the rest of the group.  Several already knew that the bronze helmet, gun, and boots signified a fallen soldier and others decided to ask their veteran relatives about their experiences.  

The highlight of the walk back was stopping by the water feature and cooling off a little.