From Helmets to History: St. Mark’s Campus Students Participate in Bike Rodeo and Jacksonville Day

Last week marked eagerly anticipated milestones for St. Mark’s Campus students as they engaged in grade-level activities that are traditional to the campus. Second grade students, donned with helmets and their bikes, participated in the Bike Rodeo. Tucker Cycles started the morning with safety checks on all student bikes. Under the guidance of the JSO Bike Squad and ESJ’s own security guard, a former BMX rider, students received invaluable safety briefings before embarking on a series of obstacle courses. They practiced hand signaling, stopping at an intersection, coming to a complete stop, and weaving around obstacles in the road. Students ended with a bike ride around the track and students earning their very own bike licenses! 

Third grade students have prepared for Jacksonville Day since August. In the live performance, “Jacksonville: The River City by the Sea,” students acted as several important figures throughout the history of Jacksonville. Written by Drew Haramis, third grade teacher, students covered Jacksonville’s Beginnings, Native Americans, Early Cowford, Jacksonville’s Economy, Navy and Coast Guard, the Auto Age, Arts and Music, and Sports. Following the performance, students became a living history museum by presenting a Neighborhood Shoebox Parade and dioramas of forts and historical places throughout the city.

“In both the Bike Rodeo and Jacksonville Day events, St. Mark’s Campus students not only showcased their talents and knowledge but also celebrated the spirit of community and learning that shapes their educational journey,” said Beville Anderson, Head of Lower School, St. Mark’s Campus.”