GWL FIRST GRADERS VISIT THE "ONE-ROOM SCHOOLHOUSE"

As an extension of the first grade Social Studies Curriculum, the entire first grade visited the North Shore High School original one-room Schoolhouse built and hosted by high school teacher Robert LaBlanc. As part of their “School Long Ago” lesson, GWL first graders learned how children went to school, learned and sat in a classroom very different from their own more than 100 years ago!
  
As part of their visit, students and their teachers had the unique opportunity to see the building created by seniors in the Long Island Studies Program under the direction of technology teacher, Mr. Bruce Fichtman (who retired last year). The North Shore “Schoolhouse” is a historic replica of the one built in Glenwood Landing in the 1800’s. As they entered the authentic one-room structure, you could hear many of the children gasp, “WOW!” 
 
During their visit, topics of discussion emphasized the importance of architectural plans and model buildings. Mr. LaBlanc also shared with the students various photos and replicas of a sailboat that was created by his students and the new Victorian House TV & Recording Studio being currently built on the high school campus by seniors in the Long Island Studies Program.
 
First graders watched and listened intensely and even had an opportunity to ring the schoolhouse bell!  Many thanks to Mr. LaBlanc and all of the Glenwood Elementary 1st grade teachers for making this trip possible for the first graders.  
 
Article and photos by Shelly Newman

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