Students Bring Florida History to Life

Students brought 510 years of Florida history to life in front of a live audience last week during Florida Day. Every student took center stage dressed as historical figures ranging from Pedro Menendez and Jean Ribault to Andrew Jackson, Clara White, and even Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse! Following the performance, students became a living-history museum by presenting their County Shoebox Parade and dioramas of forts and historical places throughout Florida.  Younger students loved “touring Florida” and learning from third graders’ expertise. View Photos. 

Another special moment during the morning featured the annual performance of the song “Down In Jacksonville” written by Margaret Foerster, grandmother to Gracie Hammond ’25 and Anna Hammond ’29.  Mrs. Foerster wrote the lyrics as a theme song for a show she hosted on Channel 4 called “Your Town and Mine.” Each year, students enjoy performing the jazzy tune as part of the finale to their presentation.