Colonial Williamsburg Presentation

Today George Washington; his slave, Hercules; and Dred Scott visited our school! They shared their stories, answered questions, and were quite entertaining. Slavery from Colonial times up to pre-Civil War was discussed in a lively and engaging presentation. Here are some pictures I snapped. (Sorry for the poor quality. I had to take the pictures without flash so I wasn't a distraction.)

Some of the 8th graders excited to meet the first president!

Hercules, George Washington's slave and personal chef, spoke to us about what freedom meant.

George Washington shares his personal and then political views on slavery.

Dred Scott shares his feelings at the decision by the Supreme Court that denied him and all blacks (even free!) citizenship.

Natali asks Dred Scott a question.

A group of 8th grade girls posing with both President Washington and Dred Scott. This is, of course, after they asked the president if he knew General Burgoyne, their favorite Revolutionary War figure.

Government

Learning about how our government works is one of the most important jobs as citizens of America. It always seems that when the government unit comes about, there are real life teaching moments! We have had quite a few discussions of the government shut down while we focus on the Constitution, the set up of the government, and at the end of this week look specifically at the freedoms we enjoy under the Bill of Rights.

An oldie but a goody. :-)