Most of us can remember the excitement of being out of school to enjoy time with family and friends for the holidays. For some, the season is a mixture of hope and sadness. With the anticipation that builds between Thanksgiving and Christmas, it can be hard for students to focus on studying. That’s why, for decades, staff at Saint Andrew’s School have offered mini-courses during December.
Mini-courses are classes that help keep students engaged in learning new and fun things! With a lighter load of schoolwork in the mornings, students can choose afternoon electives from a wide array of options. This year’s mini-course activities included baking, hiking, crafting pvc marshmallow shooters, arts, and crafts, as well as opportunities to learn about Tennessee heritage, dog care, and The White Table. These fun and educational courses bring an extra helping of joy to the season for all!
Between the Thanksgiving and Christmas Breaks, students visited the Tuskegee Institute and American Village, both in Alabama. The American Village allowed students to “step into history” and discover the power and drama of America’s journey to independence, liberty, and self-government. Students learned about the rich history and development of Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University); the contributions of two famous men who shared the name, Washington –Drs. Booker T. Washington and George Washington Carver. These innovators broke racial boundaries and made profound contributions to the fields of Education, Agriculture, Medicine, and Science. In Pigeon Forge, the Titanic Museum staff rolled out the red carpet to our students as they welcomed them to “first class.” The trip provided opportunities to learn about the ship and experience an evening to remember.