Kelly Middle School Students Experience Real Life History

Kelly Middle School students in Benton are experiencing a lesson in history and geography that will unlikely be forgotten anytime soon. After fundraising throughout the majority of the year, 67 participants boarded a chartered bus to Washington D.C. in May 2008 for the history lesson of a lifetime. Upon arriving, the students toured sites such as the Smithsonian, US Capitol, White House, Holocaust Museum, and many other important landmarks. This trip allowed students to see firsthand the places they discuss in the classroom setting. "It is my goal to expose students to what the world has to offer so that they will continue to be an active participant in their education," stated Tracy Siebert, Kelly Middle School social studies teacher.

With the D.C. trip being such a success, Siebert and math teacher Kristy Fritsch planned another trip to New York City, which is scheduled for May 2009. Forty total participants are expected to explore historical sites like Ground Zero, Central Park, Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, Wall Street, and Times Square. While in NYC, students will experience a Broadway Play and tour NBC Studios.

Plans are already underway for a 2010 trip back to Washington D.C. utilizing the Smithsonian Student Travel company. Interested parents and of 6th and 7th grade students at Kelly Middle School should attend the informational meeting on Tuesday, April 21st at 7 p.m. in the multi-purpose room.

"Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn."-Benjamin Franklin