A group of students take a moment to pose together on the stairs of the Independence Hall after our tour.
The day began early with cereal. Everyone packed a sack lunch before we took off to Philip H. Sheridan Elementary School.Â
The area around the school was very crowded. Once inside the school, we had a meeting with Ricardo Martino, from the National School and Community Corps (N.S.C.C.). Sheridan Elementary has a very diverse student population including 54% Latino, 34% African American, 6% white, 4% Asian, and 1% Native American. Our group quickly noticed the importance of the N.S.C.C. within the school. This organization works side-by-side with the teachers and the principle, throughout the school, to help children with their learning and school activities. After the meeting, we were divided up into different classrooms throughout the school. It was exciting to work in a multicultural setting. The kids were very energetic. School ended early, at 1:00 p.m., because of snowfall.Â
After school, we went back to the Liberty Center as an entire group. Many of us enjoyed the Liberty Bell and other exibits. We got to be one of the last groups of the year to see the second floor of the Pennsylvania State House. Everything was free and it was a lot of fun.Â
When we arrived back at Charmounix Mansion, we enjoyed spaghetti as an entire group. The hostel we are staying at was originally created in 1802. It is a very unique setting. The main rooms are beautifully decorated with old wooden furniture. A particular favorite, for our group, is the T.V. room where we can sit and relax. The girls have one large room with bunk beds on the second floor and the boys have a small room on the third floor.Â
It was a very snowy day in Philly. We are beginning to wonder if we brought Michigan weather with us.
