How do you make learning about the Civil War fun for young students? Begin by engaging a group of students in an afterschool program that has them painting miniature Civil War soldiers. Then morph this program into the study of Gettysburg, allowing students to experience the life of a Civil War soldier. What a great idea! The new fall class begins on Tuesday, September 21, 2010.

So far, this concept, created by middle school teacher Jeff Evans, has been a huge success as Old Trail School students jump on board to bring history to life. Thanks to two very popular After the Bell programs (Battles and Brushes-History in Miniature and Gettysburg-A New Birth of Freedom ) learning about the Civil War is cool!

Jeff, a 10 year veteran with the National Park Service at Gettysburg and a seasoned writer about the Battle at Gettysburg, brings a fresh approach to what students do in their afterschool hours. The highlight of the program is an optional trip to Gettysburg with their families joined Jeff and his family.

He is still very connected with former colleagues in Gettysburg so he was able to create a trip featuring many fun activities including: spending time with Rob Gibson, an expert on Civil War photography (Rob works with the History Channel and has had his photos used in movies such as Cold Mountain and National Treasure II) and member of the White House Press Corps; visiting the National Cemetery to discuss the real tragedies that occurred during the Battle; walking on the battle fields and more.

Students also enjoy visiting the home of Evans’ wife, Lynn’s family, (also Mari, and OTS preschooler’s relatives) who have lived in the Gettysburg area since 1750. In fact, Mari’s great, great, great, great, great, great grandfather stood guard over President Abraham Lincoln while he delivered the Gettysburg Address!

Connecting history on a tangible level is Jeff’s goal with the students. He strives to keep the program very interactive and wants them to “do, see and feel” history so that they learn about it effectively.