Learning adventure in San Juan
DCS Montessori eighth-grade students at Castillo San Felipe del Morro, also known as “El Morro,” one of the oldest Spanish fortifications in the Caribbean.
Eighth graders from DCS Montessori recently traveled to San Juan, Puerto Rico, for a learning adventure as part of the school’s mission “to enrich the world through positive and substantial contributions.”
To prepare for the trip, the students learned about the Caribbean Island as part of a global studies elective class when they were seventh graders. Accompanied by two teachers, three chaperones, and one parent, the 20 students experienced the cultures and customs of Puerto Rico, explored the lush tropical landscapes and participated in service-learning projects.
Tropical conditions did not prevent the group from working to beautify a local garden. They raked wet and dry leaves, sifted compost to make soil, planted cilantro at a farm, cut down invasive plants, and chopped down dead parts of trees using machetes. “I enjoyed working in the garden even though it was very hot because I saw the change instantly,” said eighth grader Jake Rossi.
Students also restored mangrove trees by removing invasive plant species, worked to help beautify a neighborhood and supported the local food bank.
“I enjoyed working at the food bank because I knew it would help many families,” said eighth grader Jojo Williams.
During a traditional cooking class, students got a taste of Puerto Rico by learning to make mofongo – mashed, cooked plantains with spice and pork. They toured historic landmarks like El Morro, one of the oldest Spanish fortifications in the Caribbean, as well as explored Old San Juan with stops at San José Church, La Fortaleza, the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista and Paseo de la Princesa. They also took a salsa dancing lesson, enjoyed beach time at Luquillo, and ended their adventure with an unforgettable kayak tour of the island’s famous bioluminescent bay.
The six-day trip marked the third consecutive year the school has partnered with EF Educational Tours to bring this unique opportunity to middle schoolers.
In effort to keep the San Juan community beautiful, Sophia Pruitt raked dry leaves outside the community garden.
DCS Montessori eighth-grade student Jojo Williams wore a smile knowing her small gesture of packing food boxes made a big impact for local San Juan families.
By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of Samhee Shim
