Second grade Social Studies teacher, Kate Rozylowicz asked her students to take a trip to a U.S. Landmark of their choice, but without leaving home. This annual project she provides her second graders gives them an opportunity to discover America through books and the internet while providing a mini vacation for onlookers who visit during a special unveiling of her student's projects.

The St. Joseph second graders could create a diorama or a poster about a Washington, D.C. site or a national symbol. Many students added special meaning by bringing a family member's background into their project.

In his younger years, Mikayla Sweeney's dad, Bill worked as a Junior Zoo Keeper. Mikayla honored his efforts by learning more about his earlier life when creating her National Zoo diorama. Alex Mazzocchi brought a warmth to his teacher's heart as he chose to honor her and her family by learning about the Air Force Memorial. Rozylowicz' son is currently serving in the Air Force. Madeline Schallmoser honored her grandfather, who is a lawyer. She learned that as a lawyer he is licensed to try cases in front of the Supreme Court. So she created a poster display on the U.S. Supreme Court Building. She and her grandfather worked closely on the project sharing the facts about this stately building. Emmett Flannery honored his grandfather, WWII U.S. Navy Aerial Gunner Hubbard Erickson, Jr. while creating his National World War II Memorial diorama. Nathan Czaplicki will soon be traveling to Mount Rushmore with his family so together they learned about this National Monument.

Rozylowicz knows this project brings a lot of excitement each year and is amazed at her student's creativity. "My students seem to take this project to heart when picking their landmarks. Adding a tribute to family members really brings a personality to their project," she said.

Students had to research their landmarks with an adult, were asked to draw or color their site or symbol and could also use photos from the computer. They were to asked to find five facts about their site or symbol. On Wednesday, March 2nd, the day of the big unveiling students had the opportunity to dress in costume to better represent their landmarks. Classroom visitors were then provided presentations by the individual students at their Social Studies Fair. "Their presentations really help build their confidence. It's just wonderful to see their pride coming forth," added Rozylowicz.

St. Joseph School offers 3- and 4-year-old preschool through 8th grade and is known for its staff-run Extended Care and K-Club program offering students an extended day of 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., a convenient option for working parents. Holiday Care provides staff-run care for St. Joseph school families whose schedules do not coincide with their children's school holidays.

School tours are available by contacting Amy Marciniak at 630-971-1962. For more information, go to www.stjosephdg.org.