Palmer Trinity School

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An independent, college preparatory, co-ed, Episcopal Day School serves a community of students in grades 6-12.

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FLORIDA UNFOLDED: E N G L I S H F O R S P E A K E R S O F O T H E R L A N G U A G E S (E S O L ) S T U D E N T S E X P L O R E L O C A L H I S T O R Y THIS SCHOOL YEAR, THE ESOL PROGRAM INTRODUCED AN EXCITING NEW COURSE—HISTORY OF FLORIDA—AIMED AT IMMERSING INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN THE STATE'S RICH HISTORY AND LINKING THEM TO ITS VIBRANT, CONTEMPORARY CULTURE. THIS CLASS IS A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPLORE THE SUNSHINE STATE IN A HANDS-ON WAY FOR STUDENTS WHO HAVE LIVED IN FLORIDA FOR LESS THAN TWO YEARS. BY A NI A B A DE , E S OL DIR E C T OR JOUR NE Y ING THROUGH TIME : A C ULT UR A L A DV ENT UR E The History of Florida class isn't just about textbooks and lectures. It's a journey that brings history to life through field trips, interactive learning, and firsthand experiences. Students have visited the Deering Estate, just around the corner from the school, to learn about the Calusa Indians, one of Florida's earliest indigenous groups. This visit allowed them to walk in the footsteps of these ancient people, see artifacts, and understand their impact on the land they inhabited long before European settlers arrived. But the learning didn't stop there. The class explored the Gold Coast Railroad—a pivotal site in the development of Florida's transportation system—and delved into the vibrant neighborhoods of Coral Gables and Little Havana, where they experienced the blend of cultures that make Florida such a unique place. From the Spanish influence in the city of Miami to the Cuban-American culture in the neighbor- hood of Little Havana, students are diving deep into the multicultural landscape that shapes modern Florida. BR IDGING C ULT UR E S A ND E XPER IENCE S This class is about more than just learning facts; it's about helping international students connect with the state they now call home. Many students in the ESOL program are still adjusting to life in the U.S. By exploring Florida's history and landmarks, they gain a deeper understanding of the local culture, traditions, and heritage that shape their new community. It also helps them feel more connected to their surroundings and provides them with valuable knowledge they can carry with them as they continue their education in the U.S. A CL A S S OF DIS C OV ERY A ND BEL ONGING For students who have recently arrived to the state, the History of Florida class offers a chance to explore their new home in ways that textbooks alone cannot provide. It's an opportunity to discover the stories behind the places they see every day, ask questions, and develop a sense of pride and belonging in their new community. The course also fosters teamwork and communication as students collaborate with their peers to explore different historical sites and share their personal insights and experiences. Through the History of Florida course, students not only learn about the past, but also create their own place in the story of Florida—one trip, one lesson, and one discovery at a time. 14 PALMERTRINITY.ORG B I R D S ' S E Y E V I E W

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