Henrico elementary school students 'adopt' lighthouses
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Fifth-grade students at one Henrico elementary school recently learned more about lighthouses and their keepers, thanks to an initiative created by a Navy veteran.
Charlie Anderson, a resident of the Avery Point senior living community in Short Pump, suggested the project to his granddaughter Leah’s fifth-grade teacher, Farrell Bishop. His proposal was to have each student in the class borrow a lighthouse figurine from his extensive collection, conduct research and deliver a report.
The enthusiasm for the project quickly spread to more than 80 students in multiple fifth-grade classes. Anderson provided all the students with two-inch pin-on buttons and certificates, officially designating each student as an “Official Keeper of the Light.” He also read and discussed a book with each class about the life of remote lighthouse keepers and their families.
The three-month project came to a close on March 20 with a Lighthouse Fair, at which parents and visitors were able to see the students’ achievements.
The highlight of the event was the surprise announcement that the lighthouses were not on loan to the students but instead were gifts to keep.
"This is what my 'adopt a lighthouse' journey is all about - inspiring curiosity, fostering learning, and spreading joy," Anderson said.
