Students observe Colonial Day

SUSSEX — It was back to colonial times for 7th grade students and faculty at the Sussex Middle School during Colonial Day on May 15. Seventh graders crafted, created, baked, and exhibited projects reflecting the culture of the original 13 American Colonies.
More than 100 7th graders gathered in the school’s cafeteria to display their projects. Presentations ranged from new themes like a life size Native American Teepee, life size cannon, and guillotines, to annual favorites like models of the Mayflower, Salem Witch Trial graves, and the Jamestown Fort. There were even several dye demonstrations, recreations of colonial toys like Jacob's ladder and corn husk dolls, and baked colonial foods with recipes like apple pie, and corn bread. Student Anna Volpe took on the character of Betsy Ross and gave a speech about Ross and the creation of the original 13 colonies flag. This annual event was hosted by Social Studies teacher Kerri Freda and teacher Keeley Castillo.
“Even after doing this for almost ten years, I am still amazed at how creative students are with their projects and how there are rarely any duplicated themes,” said Freda. "I think because students have the freedom to pick what they create and since there is such a broad range of topics, it gives all students an opportunity to construct something that interests them. Many love to create bows and arrows, tomahawks and other colonial tools, while others love to recreate the Jamestown Fort and southern plantations. There really is something for everyone and every year I am so proud of my students for their efforts!”
"I made a bow and arrow because that is something that I am interested in,” said 7th grader David Taliercio “I liked the variety of projects and that the people could create what they were interested in."
Sixth grade Social Studies teachers Rachel Sutton and Mary Eileen Schoen, and their students were invited to the event and many 6th grade students were given the opportunity to forecast what the curriculum for 7th grade Social Studies will be. "My classes and I had fun visiting Colonial Day and seeing the students' creative talents. The artifacts, music, and clothing took us back in time." Mrs. Sutton
“Colonial Day is a wonderful opportunity for students to be creative and demonstrate their understanding of the colonial times,” said SMS Principal Shane Schwarz. “Mrs. Freda always puts together a wonderful event for the 7th graders.”