Experiencing Indiana
Founded in 1816, Indiana has a rich history, some of which the New Song students are learning about through field trips in southcentral Indiana.
Beginning in August, our students began taking an Indiana History course, they are learning and experiencing some very interesting facts about the Hoosier state.
Some of the places students have visited this fall semester include a covered bridge in Jackson County, a goat farm in Bartholomew County, a fire tower in the Brown County State Park, and the Johnson County Courthouse in Franklin.
Students were excited to see the goat farm of Justin Burbrink, located a few miles south of Columbus, Indiana. Mr. Burbrink was very kind to share his time and farm with our kids. The boys and girls even got to climb up an old ladder into the barn’s hayloft!
The farm became a “petting zoo” of sorts, as the New Song students were able to get up close and personal with the goats. Several of our students, who are 2nd through 7th graders, were brave enough to pet the goats, while others were a little more timid. But each of the students got a good taste of the farm-life experience.
A trip to the county courthouse in Franklin was also especially interesting to our students. After touring the beautiful old courthouse, which was built in 1882, the security guard told our group that an actual criminal trial was occurring in one of the courtrooms.
Mr. Bob, Miss Bea, and the students all quietly slipped into the back of the courtroom while the prosecutor was delivering her closing argument. “I had something in my throat but I was afraid to clear it,” shared 10-year old Jaylen, who recognized the seriousness of the setting.
The defendant had been accused of dealing methamphetamine to under cover informants. After listening to the judge give the jury instructions, we somberly watched jurors stand up and walk out of the courtroom for their deliberations. The next evening a staff member looked online for the outcome of the case and showed an article to the kids that the defendant was found guilty of all counts in just 16 minutes. He was also found to be a habitual offender and is now facing more than 30 years in prison. It was quite an eye-opening experience for the kids.
From courthouses to goat farms, our students are having some very enriching outings in their Indiana History class. We are so grateful for the chance to help them learn and grow in their knowledge about our wonderful state!