Students learn ways to get around

Eugene Ware Elementary School and Winfield Scott Elementary School fifth grade students pose for a picture during a field trip taken on spring break. During the trip, the students were able to experience various forms of transportation. (Submitted photo)

On Sunday, March 15, a group of fifth-grade students from both Eugene Ware Elementary School and Winfield Scott Elementary School packed their bags and headed to St. Louis for a spring break adventure exposing the students to several forms of transportation not available in the local area.

According to Eugene Ware Principal Billie Jo Drake, this is the second year the transportation trip has been offered to USD 234 fifth grade students, and the popularity of the program seems to be growing. Last year only ten students signed up to participate in the trip. This year, however, there were 15 students who traveled to St. Louis.

USD 234 Superintendent Rick Werling said since the local district already had trips in place for both middle school and high school students, he wanted to give elementary school students a similar opportunity. In addition, Werling said he wanted the trip to be both fun and educational.

"We have school trips for middle schoolers and high schoolers, but nothing for elementary schoolers." Werling said. Since St. Louis is not that far away, it is a great way for them to experience different forms of transportation. We wanted it (trip) to be a learning experience as well as a spring break trip."

According to Drake, during the excursion, the students traveled on six different types of transportation.

"We rode the Amtrak to St. Louis, took a riverboat cruise, rode in taxis, on the MetroLink and MetroBus, flew home, and did a great deal of walking," Drake said.

Winfield Scott fifth grade student Gavin Majors, who had never ridden on an airplane or traveled on the MetroLink before, said his favorite form of transportation on the trip was the airplane. Nate Mead, Winfield Scott, said during the trip he was able to experience riding on a train, airplane and boat for the first time. After experiencing the different forms of transportation, he said he enjoyed the airplane the most. Eugene Ware student Charlotte Hutchison said she had not previously ridden on the MetroLink, MetroBus or in a taxi. She added her favorite forms of transportation were the taxi and the MetroLink. For Tyler Meek, Eugene Ware, the riverboat cruise was a favored form of transportation. Meghan Fountain, who had never had the opportunity to ride on a riverboat before the trip, said that riding on the boat was her favorite form of transportation.

According to Drake, in addition to being exposed to various types of transportation, the students experienced various educational attractions in St. Louis.

"We visited Grant's Historical Site, the Gateway Arch, Science Center, Zoo and Union Station," Drake said. "I think the students learned many interesting historical facts at Grant's Site, interesting facts at the Arch, the importance of staying on schedule, and making sure you are in the appropriate group."

While Eugene Ware students Taylor Cooper, Shytanna Reed and Breanna Primeaux said they really enjoyed their visit to the St. Louis Arch, Winfield Scott fifth grade student Garrett Tatro said his favorite part of the trip was the time he spent at the St. Louis Zoo. Abby Denton, Winfield Scott, said the activity she liked the best was the trip to Science City. Eugene Ware fifth grade teacher and trip sponsor Brenda Hill said she really enjoyed seeing the how much fun the students had on the trip.

"The students especially enjoyed the view from the Arch -- seeing the Mississippi River and Busch Stadium from the Arch," Hill said. "The ride in the capsule up to the Arch was also an experience they won't soon forget. St. Louis has a wonderful zoo, and the beautiful weather made it possible for us to see many different animals. I especially enjoyed seeing the students' excitement as we went to the various places."

Drake said she also took pleasure in the students' enjoyment during the trip.

"My favorite part of the trip, since I have previously been to all of these attractions, was the reaction of the students as they experienced new things and getting to relate to the students on a personal basis," Drake said.

According to Hill, the transportation trip will have a long-lasting effect on the students who participated in the event.

"I think this type of trip is a great experience for our students," Hill said. "It allows them to see life outside of our own small town. We don't have taxis, city buses, or a light rail system in Fort Scott. The students were able to experience those things and more. I feel certain the students will remember this trip for many years to come."

Winfield Scott student Skylar Winningham said the trip not only helped the students learn many interesting facts, but it also taught them how to get along with other people better. MaKenna Berger, Eugene Ware, added the trip also helped the students learn how to stay with a group and be responsible for others.

Winfield Scott fifth grader Rhya Pearson said she would recommend the trip to next year's fifth grade students.

"Yes, (I would recommend the trip) because it is fun, and I enjoyed it," Pearson said. "I think other kids should get a chance to go to another exciting place."

Anyone who is interested in helping sponsor a fifth grade student during the 2009-10 school year, should contact Drake at (620) 223-3380 or Winfield Scott Principal Dave Elliott at (620) 223-0450