Students from Monroe-Woodbury High School’s Humanities program stepped into the history of immigration on April 14 during a class trip to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Accompanied by three teachers, twenty-four students explored the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration and learned about the experiences of millions of immigrants who entered the United States. The class traveled to the islands on a round trip ferry service that stops at Liberty and Ellis Island.
The class enjoyed the sunny spring day as the weather remained sunny and warm throughout the day.
Once arriving in Liberty State Park in New Jersey, the class traveled by ferry to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. After a quick lunch, teachers and students were given time to explore the museum exhibits on their own. Student Paige Morales said she was interested in the past.
“I think it’s very interesting to see these people that lived in the past and were actually here,” she said. “I hope to see the Statue of Liberty and be able to see something cool that I’ve never seen before.”
The museum featured photographs, heirlooms, interactive displays, and films that highlighted immigrant experiences.
The museum had visitors from around the country and the world.
“My favorite thing about the museum is learning about the history of immigrants,” said Jessinene Miller, an 8th grade teacher from New Jersey. Her class was able to explore the immigration process through each display she’d located in the museum.
Lian, a visitor from England, shared that, “It’s really interesting seeing the passports, just how different they were, and also the ship’s manifest.”
The museum allowed Monroe-Woodbury student Madison Jacobs to connect with the past.
“Honestly, I just like everything about the museum,” she said. “It’s cool to see all the families from the past and how they were treated. I can’t wait to see the Statue of Liberty, it’s gonna be great.”
Outside, the students and teachers viewed the American Immigrant Wall of Honor, which featured nearly one million inscribed names representing the journey immigrants overcame to live a better life. Lewis, a visitor from France, said, “it is interesting how heavy the museum is with history and it is interesting to learn about new things.”
After about an hour, the class took a ferry and traveled to Liberty Island where they visited the Statue of Liberty. Upon entering the island, the students and teachers passed through metal detectors. The class then stored personal belongings, including bags and purses in lockers before entering the statue. Once inside, the group climbed approximately 10 stories to reach the viewing platform. After taking pictures and enjoying the view, the class descended down the stairs, collected their belongings, and returned to the ferry to begin their journey back to the high school.
