A Thanksgiving feast of historic proportions at Salisbury Academy
Published 12:00 am Thursday, November 23, 2017
- Dressed in Native American garb, Halle Laferriere prepares to dine with her fellow students. Now a third-grader, Laferriere enjoyed this same feast as a first grade Pilgrim two years ago. Submitted photo
Salisbury Academy
SALISBURY — Ask a first-grader at Salisbury Academy about the first Thanksgiving, and he will enthusiastically share details on the pilgrims’ voyage on the Mayflower and what life was like in the new colony.
Talk to a third-grader about Native Americans, and she will give you insights into their culture, food and customs.
With appreciation for the history of the first Thanksgiving, pupils in the two grades put on their pilgrim and Native American costumes for Salisbury Academy’s annual Thanksgiving feast last week.
The tradition for first- and third-graders goes back to the school’s beginnings and starts with a Thanksgiving blessing. Food served at the feast includes simple, natural dishes that Native Americans and pilgrims might have eaten together in 1621.
The gathering is a festive example of experiential learning and is a much anticipated annual collaboration at Salisbury Academy.
“The Thanksgiving feast is such a joyful day,” said Jody Robins, first-grade teacher. “There’s nothing the students love more than bringing their studies to life in memorable and fun ways.”
