Holding Down the Fort in Fourth Grade

Before the journey, students researched Indigenous tribes of California, fostering an understanding of the diverse cultures that shaped the region, and connected everything we learned back to our humanities throughline, “How can we create change by understanding our own experiences and the experiences of others?”

During the trip to Fort Ross, students chose roles, gaining insight into the varied identities and daily lives of individuals at the fort. The activity groups included hunters, explorers, cooks, artisans, and clerks, who all  played an important role at the Fort. This interactive approach allows them to appreciate the historical context and the impact of identity on daily experiences. Students learn about the indigenous Kashaya Pomo and Miwok, the Aleutians and Inuit from Alaska, and the Europeans and Russians who all interacted at the Fort. The lives of these groups of people were all different based on their race and the power they held at Metini/Fort Ross. Students examined how differently each of these groups were treated and the impact they had on the environment around them. 

Hiking along the coastline of California, students connected to the geography of California which we studied at the beginning of the year. Students cooked over an open fire, made rope, crafted items to sell at the company store, and made company notes for each specific role group. A major part of the trip is the Night Watch, where each role group wakes up for an hour to tend to the fire and do a perimeter walk around the Fort. Students were encouraged by the hot chocolate and treats they enjoyed as they sat by the fire as late as 2am! 

The trip serves as a culminating fourth grade experience, creating lasting memories that contribute to their entire Live Oak journey. The reflection sessions at the Metini allow students to connect their own experiences and empathize with the challenges faced by individuals in the 1800s. Importantly, the curriculum integrates an honest and accurate portrayal of Metini/Fort Ross's history. This ensures that students gain a comprehensive understanding of the events and cultural dynamics that unfolded at the Fort during the 1800s. By incorporating this historical context, the curriculum aims to foster critical thinking and a nuanced perspective on the past.

Beyond historical learning, the trip was a bonding experience for the students. Through shared activities, reflections, and a collective exploration of the Fort, students pushed themselves out of their comfort zone and built a deeper connection with each other that extends beyond the immediate context of the trip. At night, students turned off any flashlights or artificial light on a night hike among the stars. They played fourth grade charades around the campfire.The Metini/Fort Ross trip was an immersive, educational, and memorable experience for the Live Oak students. By integrating research, hands-on activities, and reflections, the curriculum aims to instill a deep appreciation for California's history while fostering strong bonds with their classmates.

This annual trip is one of the many experiential learning opportunities Live Oak students undergo as they seek to better understand their world and their impact in it.