logo-nationalheritageLiving a life-long dream of traveling the United States, Chandler Woods Academy teachers Jake Downing and Kristin Downs decided to include their students, school parents and colleagues on their recent journey. By creating a blog and through frequent updates on Downs’ Facebook page, the teachers welcomed followers along on their marvelous adventure.

Starting in Grand Rapids, Mich., Downing and Downs headed west on their way to the Pacific Ocean. During their three-week exploit, students and others were treated to glimpses of numerous vibrant cities, including Seattle, San Francisco and St. Louis, as well as national treasures such as Mt. Rushmore, Yellowstone Park and the Grand Canyon.

For followers, the teachers’ travels served as a powerful reminder of the diversity and beauty of the United States. For educators, the journey served as a powerful reminder of how students can remain engaged even during the summer months when school is on recess.

“This has been such a wonderful experience for Jake and me,” said Downs. “The Internet has become a powerful educational tool and we are thrilled that a number of our students and their parents were able to join us for this once-in-a-lifetime trip. During our travels we saw many amazing sites and met even more amazing people. Our hope is that one day our students will be able to travel the country and live the experience themselves. America is breathtaking and it really needs to be seen to be appreciated.”

For a stop-by-stop account of Downing and Downs’ three-week trip across the United States, visit www.kristinandjakeplusbreak.blogspot.com.