Students from Prescott High School recently had the opportunity to teach educators from across Wisconsin about the power of experiential learning. On Friday, March 13, eight Prescott students joined peers from Wauwatosa West High School to present at the Wisconsin Council for the Social Studies State Conference in Madison.

Their presentation focused on their four-day cultural and historical immersion trip to the Lac Du Flambeau Ojibwe Reservation in northern Wisconsin. During their presentation session, students described how place-based learning and direct interaction with Native people deepened their understanding of Native history, culture and governance. They encouraged conference attendees to develop similar authentic learning experiences for students across the state.

Prescott student presenters included Allie Tibayan, Emelia Berg, Brooke Macheska, Lilly Hillebrand, Payge Haupt, Lucas Gale, Isaac Akey, and Cayden Johnson. Wauwatosa West students Khalil Barki, LaChon Dixon, Lan Nguyen, Alex Green, and Keira Ihm also participated, along with Wauwatosa West teacher Chris Lazarski.

The trip has been part of the Prescott High School curriculum since 2000. Over this time, 424 Prescott students have participated in this authentic place-based learning experience. Prescott Community Education will again be sponsoring a trip this summer, July 9-12. Those interested in participating can contact Jeff Ryan at Prescott High School at jryan@prescott.k12.wi.us