At the very heart of a Westminster education is the study of history and the ancient civilizations that contributed so much to our own, modern way of life. To fully understand and appreciate one’s own culture, and in order to further intellectual development, the study of ancient history is critical.

Starting with the earliest western civilizations, Westminster students learn about the great achievements of humanity–the ideas and inventions, language development, beliefs and rituals, history-changing events, and daily life that characterize each culture. One day of the year, the classes get together, under the leadership of their history teachers, to celebrate the civilization that they have studied in depth that year.

“If you don’t know history, then you don’t know anything. You are a leaf that doesn’t know it is part of a tree.”  – Michael Crichton

What can the Ancients teach your child?

Egyptian and Roman Days both took place in March this year, and the students got to spend an entire day immersed in the respective culture.  The ancient-citizens-for-a-day relished a sumptuous feast, authentic and delicious, and enjoyed trying new foods as well as favorites. The Ancient Egyptians (3rd graders) got the chance to “dance like an Egyptian,” and create Egyptian-style art projects to round out the day. For example, students crafted their own necklaces using string, beads, and paper, which were transformed into colorful images of magic charms and religious amulets.  The 3rd-graders also learned about senet, one of the world’s oldest board games, which incorporates Egyptian mythology and iconography in its gameplay.

The students first created their own senet boards and then challenged their classmates to a round of the luck-based game.

The 5th-grade Romans likewise engaged in art projects and activities that helped bring this ancient civilization to life.  After making garland headpieces to enhance their costumes, the students created Roman shields inspired by their studies of the all-conquering Roman Army.  In the spirit of ancient home life, the students crafted mosaic terra cotta pots.  A game of Roman ball rounded out the day, which ended with a movie, David Macauley’s “Roman City.”

These history days are just a few of the special experiences given to Westminster students.  Not only do they provide lifelong memories, they also bring the vivid past alive in the present.