Middle-School Goes to Boston

Middle Schoolers hit the Freedom Trail last fall in their much-anticipated trip to Boston-and it seems to have been a great success, to listen to the rave reviews from students and teachers alike.

“It was very exciting!” said 8th grader Shanelle Baboolal.

“It was great!” said Middle School Language Arts teacher Bill Mentz.

The entire school turned out bright and early on a Wednesday morning to see off the 6th, 7th and 8th graders. A 4-hour bus trip brought the students, accompanied by Mrs. Kellas, Mr. Rendich and Mr. Mentz, straight to Quincy Market in the heart of Boston. After lunches of clam chowder and lobster rolls, the group visited the Old North Church, Faneuil Hall, the site of the Boston Massacre and other sights. After a buffet dinner in Watertown -popular for its many desserts-the Soundview group arrived at their Holiday Inn on the outskirts of Boston in time to unpack, shower and get to bed.

The cold weather the next day did not dampen spirits as the group followed a busy itinerary that included a trip to the U.S.S. Constitution, the Bunker Hill Monument and Salem, where they visited the witch museum and lighthouse. Dinner at The Hard Rock Café in Boston was followed by charades at the hotel. The next morning, before hopping on the bus for the trip home, the group had a chance to tour Harvard University.

“The trip gave the students a chance to interact on a social level, to see each other in pajamas at night, and not just in class in front of a teacher. They could just be themselves,” said Mrs. Kellas.

The students’ comments bear out Mrs. Kellas’ comments.

“It was really good,” said 8th grader Spencer LeBoff.

“I liked it when my roommates did my hair,” said 8th Grader Melissa Goldenberg.

“It was really fun - my favorite part was going up all 294 steps at the Bunker Hill Monument!” said 8th grader John Rubicam.