Teacher to Ranger to Teacher
My term as Teacher-Ranger-Teacher was not what I expected. Normally I teach special education at The Crossroads School, a public charter in Baltimore. This program was introduced to me as an opportunity to become a park ranger for the summer, bringing my new connections to the Park Service back to school with me. I envisioned taming trails in the woods, fixing fences, digging post holes, and getting my hands dirty. I thought I would go back to school buff and tan. As it turns out, my conception of park ranger was a little limited. The experience I got, though not what I expected, has been a lot of fun, and very educational.
I was brought on to help with the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail. Because the bicentennial of the War of 1812 is fast approaching, the National Parks Service is working hard to create educational signage for Maryland’s historic sites, among other things. I’ve learned more about the War of 1812 than I knew there was to learn. And it’s interesting stuff! I’ve also gotten to see some parts of Maryland I never would have seen, despite being a native. My primary projects were to help build a database of War of 1812 lesson plans and resources for MPT’s Thinkport website, and to create a presentation for teachers to educate them about the history and multitude of local resources.
Recently, I got to spend the day out on the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail with Abbi Wicklein-Bayne, the project coordinator. We visited sites that would potentially qualify for one of 150 signs being placed around the area. We visited Port Deposit, Maryland, a beautiful little town nestled somewhat precariously between the Susquehanna River and a mountain. The town was the site of a gun battery, though the British chose to land on the opposite riverbank. We got a tour of Elk’s Landing in Elkton, Maryland, an historic manor house that still houses 19th century artifacts – even a letter signed by Thomas Jefferson was found shoved into a book in the attic, though it later was sold. We learned that Elkton was saved by a 20 year old in slavery, who, when order by British officers to take them to the town, led them instead to the American militia. It has been such a pleasure meeting people who are so knowledgeable, passionate, and enthusiastic about their local history, and who are doing the service of collecting these stories.
I most look forward to the maintained connection with the Parks Service when school begins again. Already, I know that students from my school will be able to participate in Young Defender’s Day at Fort McHenry. There is a plan for service learning opportunities in the works as well; my students will be able to complete service learning hours in one of the National Parks. This is such an important connection for them, especially the students in my classes. When school is frustrating, it becomes even more important to give students a chance to be outside, working and learning in a hands-on, interactive way. Hopefully, they’ll remember the history part too!
For additional information on the National Park Service’s Teacher to Ranger to Teacher Program, please visit http://www.nps.gov/learn/trt/