Holland Township School's fourth-graders recently experienced a little of what immigrants to the United States might have faced in the early 1900s.
On April 24, 68 fourth-graders took part in the school's eighth annual Immigration Simulation Day.
All of the students dressed as immigrants from the early 1900s and began their quest to become new Americans.
Students started in the steerage section of a simulated steamship, an experience that included sightings of the Statue of Liberty.
They then disembarked and headed for a baggage inspection.
After that, they climbed stairs for a six-second medical inspection. If successful, the "immigrants" completed medical and legal inspections inside the Great Hall.
There were close to 40 parent, grandparent and administrative volunteers to help with all the many roles filled for the experience to feel authentic.
At the end of the process, all the "immigrants" were given seals of entry and allowed to join others at a New Jersey or New York welcoming station in receiving a new American flag, patriotic beads, and a treat.
Source: HOLLAND TWP.
