JEDIS Inaugural 4th Grade Colonial Day: A Step Back in Time

On Thursday, June 13, the Jordan-Elbridge Middle School hosted its inaugural 4th Grade Colonial Day, an event filled with historical activities and hands-on learning. This unique experience gave fourth graders a glimpse into the past with a variety of engaging activities. The day was a blend of education and fun, making it both busy and enjoyable for everyone involved.

The day kicked off with horse-drawn wagon rides, setting the tone for a journey back in time. Students then rotated through several fascinating stations. They learned about quilting from Mrs. Smith, a retired Elbridge Elementary nurse, and explored archeology digs with insights from the local Jordan Historical Society. The young historians also tried their hands at making old-fashioned journals, churning and tasting homemade butter, and planting crops. Traditional games like cat’s cradle and crafting activities such as making twine bracelets were also part of the morning’s excitement.

Adding to the historical immersion, Mr. Deapo, a special revolutionary-era storyteller, captivated the students with tales from the past. The morning concluded with four center rotations where students made homemade paper, whirligig toys, wooden ornaments, and participated in paper bag weaving.

After such a packed morning, the students took a break for lunch. The afternoon was no less exciting, featuring a variety of outdoor games. The day culminated with a lively Colonial Sing-Along led by the school's music teachers, bringing everyone together in a celebratory end to a fantastic day.

"Overall, I think the 4th graders had a great day," said 4th grade teacher Brooke Ritter. "A very special thank you to our wonderful volunteers who helped with supplies, preparation, and of course, during the centers. It was a lot of work, but we appreciate you all!"

The inaugural Colonial Day was a resounding success, leaving both students and teachers looking forward to making it an annual tradition.