Highland Elementary students go on history field trip, meet prominent government figures

On November 9, 2021, seventh and eighth-grade students from Highland Elementary, Tenn., went on an educational field trip to some of Nashville’s historic locations. The trip was organized by their teacher, Heather Drusky, and was designed to teach students about the US Constitution and government, and how those were influenced by Christian values.

To prepare for the field trip, Drusky contacted Sumner County Majority Representative William Lamberth who helped Drusky work out the itinerary for the day. The class visited six different sites: Sumner County Criminal Court, Sumner County Jail, Tennessee Bicentennial Mall, Tennessee State Museum, Tennessee State Library and Archives, and the Tennessee State Capitol. 

“[The trip] brought to life many concepts that we're learning in history class,” Drusky said. “Most recently, the Bill of Rights, states vs federal rights, how bills become laws … and we were able to see that in action.”

During their visits to these locations, the seventh and eighth-grade class met with prominent government figures including Lamberth, Criminal Court Judge Dee Gay, Republican Senate Leader Jack Johnson and Governor Bill Lee. 

“I found it inspiring that Judge Dee Gay upholds biblical standards in his courtroom,” said Emmaline Litchfield, one of the 8th-grade students. “[He keeps] his 80-year-old family Bible with him for constant guidance.”

Lamberth personally took the class on a tour of the Tennessee State Capitol where the students had the opportunity to sit in the representative seats and use the voting system for a mock bill. He also presented each student with a signed copy of the Tennessee Blue Book, a manual of information about Tennessee’s government and history.

According to Drusky, in addition to learning about Tennessee’s history, the trip was a great opportunity for students to learn from first-hand accounts about the various duties government officials perform.  

“Our students know that a big part of being a Christian is being of service to others,” Drusky said. “After meeting the different government officials that serve our state, the students better understand what a noble burden it is to represent the morals and values of a people.” 

In an upcoming field trip, Drusky’s class will be touring the Portland Municipal Airport as part of the class’ self-directed study.

Governor Bill Lee and Majority Leader William Lamberth pose with Highland Elementary School students, teacher, and chaperones during the class’ educational field trip.

National Park Ranger Wooten spent time guiding students through the rich history of Tennessee at the Bicentennial Mall.