(Colchester, CT) Jack Jackter Intermediate School’s fourth grade class has begun a cross-country odyssey through a unique geography and history program offered by United Van Lines. Courtesy of Capitol Relocation & Logistics, an agent of United Van Lines, twenty fourth graders will be participating in Discover America, a program which enables children nationwide to “tour” and study the geography and history of various U.S. cities via “Driver Dave”, a fictitious United van operator.
On October 31, Capitol Relocation & Logistics sent one of its drivers to Jack Jackter Intermediate School. Introduced to the students as “Driver Dave”, this van operator explained the Discover America program, discussed his job responsibilities and even packed some of the students into boxes pretending to be lamps, lamp shades, rugs, and hanging clothes. “The kids were all very excited and eager to learn about ‘Driver Dave’ and tour his truck” says Lynn LeBlanc, General Manager.
Beginning in November and continuing through May 2007, “Driver Dave’s” route will “transport” Jack Jackter students to ten cities across the United States, including New York City, Denver, and San Francisco. Each month, students will receive letters from “Driver Dave” along with picture books, postcards and vari-ous other souvenirs, highlighting the significant landmarks and sites located in each city. Students will discuss this material, calculate “Driver Dave’s “mileage and trace his route on a U.S. map provided by Capitol Relocation & Logistics. In addition to receiving monthly letters, the students will have an opportunity to log on to Driver Dave’s Wed page, www.unitedvanlines.com/uvl/driverdave, and obtain updates of the routes followed and additional information on U.S. landmarks and attractions.
“At a time when so many children are struggling to learn basic facts about geography and history, United’s Discover America program is an excellent tool to help teachers present their lessons in a fun and interesting way,” says LeBlanc. “Our agency is proud to be involved with a program that focuses on the children and their education.”