Earlier this semester, our middle school students enjoyed leaving campus to wade through the vast waters of Mississippi’s rich history, which is beautifully displayed at the newest museums in downtown Jackson. Two Mississippi Museums hosted our sixth & seventh grades for a morning filled with both Mississippi state history, as well as the history of the civil rights movement in our state.

Having visited the museum pre-pandemic, students were excited for the opportunity to return to delve deeper and learn even more. “The French and Native exhibit (Cultural Crossroads) was my favorite,” says 7th grade student Courtlandt. “I loved how they displayed the tools and resources that native Mississippians used in their regular day to day lives.” Courtlandt, a newly turned 13 year old, went on to note how amazing it was to get to hear from the youngest Freedom Rider, Mr. Hezekiah Watkins, while touring the museum.

Mr. Hezekiah Watkins was also 13 when he became the youngest Freedom Rider, traveling throughout the South to protest segregation and Jim Crow laws. In addition to being a living, breathing part of our history, Mr. Watkins serves as a Museum Educator and tour guide at Two Mississippi Museums. Additionally, Mr. Watkins is a proud TRS granddad :)

Another highlight of the tour was that our tour guide for the day was none other than Mr. Drew Gardner, former TRS History and Bible teacher, who now serves on staff at Two Mississippi Museums as a Museum Educator. Mr. Gardner, a lifelong history buff, guided our students through several hours of historical content. “I’ve taught history to many of these students since they were 3rd graders so it was awesome to be able to welcome them and lead them on their tour of the museum,” says Mr. Gardner.

The tour didn’t end when we left the museum. Students were regaled by local stories and introduced to landmarks around Jackson as our Middle School ELA & History teacher, Ms. Sheila Gilliam, took us on a bus tour before returning to campus. 

“It was such a joy to have our students excitedly return from experiencing such rich history right here in our own city,” says Mr. Menogan, our Head of School. “Taking our students outside the classroom and off-campus to engage with learning in that type of premier environment is a fantastic way to enhance their educational journey. It brings learning to life. There is no doubt that the trip made a meaningful impact on our students.”