Evergreen Elementary Students Sail Through History

Families had a chance to take a different sort of "vacation," with their fifth graders leading the way, at Evergreen Elementary School's sixth annual Sail for America.

Fifth graders worked as teams to pick one of the original colonies from an assigned region, and put together presentations in which they acted as "travel agents" trying to entice visitors to Massachusetts, South Carolina, Delaware or another destination.

Before entering the expo, fifth-grade teacher Steve Lycosky addressed the parents and other relatives, thanking them for their support and assistance at home.

Lycosky said the project taught the children about collaboration and teamwork, in addition to their learning about the colonies.

The lessons will serve them well throughout their school years, and it was all worth it "no matter how much stress or tears" their parents had throughout the last couple of weeks, Lycosky said as the parents chuckled.

When asked what the toughest part of the project was, many students said the amount of research, or the precision needed when making their travel brochures. However, the children also mentioned the fun they had while doing the project. Nearly everyone who was asked said decorating the trifold was enjoyable. Other students said they liked going over to friends' houses as they worked on the project.

The event will be held again Feb. 24.