Chicago Fire Comes to Jo Anderson Drive

One problem with traditional static education is that rote memorization of facts in a book does not lend itself to understanding the full picture. When learning something, Parker’s faculty understands that experiential events can supplement more traditional means of education to crystalize these topics in their students’ minds.

In the second semester, 3rd graders study the growth of the city of Chicago from a small settlement along the shores of Lake Michigan to the booming metropolis of today. After studying different factors leading to this growth, teachers task the students to build a model of the city as it was in 1871 to see with their own eyes the development that occurred in the area following the Battle of Fort Dearborn in 1812. Then, to truly grasp its devastating impact, 3rd graders witness the destruction that took place by watching a reenactment of the Chicago Fire in October 1871.

With safety measures in place and the Maintenance team on hand just in case, the 3rd grade team follows the lead of Mrs. O'Leary’s cow and sparks a blaze! With the entire 3rd grade and other interested community members watching, teachers explain what happened on that fateful day. After the blaze ends, these 3rd grade students have a deeper understanding of events and the need for a huge effort to rebuild.

Parker is extremely grateful for these teachers and their willingness to go above and beyond to ensure their students learn everything they can.

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