Jackson Christian Juniors Experience History Firsthand in Washington, D.C.

Jackson Christian School’s 11th grade students traveled to Washington, D.C., November 5–8 for an immersive learning experience connecting classroom lessons to some of the nation’s most significant historical sites. The group was led by U.S. history and government teacher Fran Baker.

The trip began with visits to Arlington National Cemetery, the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial, and the 9/11 Pentagon Memorial, where students reflected on the sacrifices of those who have served and protected the country.

On Thursday, students explored the Museum of the Bible and the Eisenhower Memorial before spending the afternoon at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum and Union Station. The day concluded with a guided bus tour of the city’s most notable monuments and memorials, including the Jefferson, Roosevelt, Martin Luther King, Jr., Lincoln, Vietnam, Korea, and World War II Memorials, as well as a view of the South Lawn of the White House.

Friday’s itinerary began with a walking tour of the Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, and White House, followed by a trip to Mount Vernon, where students toured George Washington’s mansion and grounds. Later that day, they visited the Folger Shakespeare Library and Capitol Hill, gaining insight into both American governance and literary history.

Before returning home on Saturday, students visited the National Building Museum and Ford’s Theatre, exploring key sites that connect to the stories and figures they have studied throughout their coursework.

“This trip brought history to life for our students,” said Baker. “They were able to stand where history happened and connect their learning in a powerful way.”

Ms. Baker has facilitated 20 trips to Washington, D.C. for Jackson Christian students since 2007. The Washington, D.C. experience serves as a culmination of the juniors’ studies in U.S. and World History, Government, and current events, deepening their understanding of the people and places that have shaped the nation.