Trailridge, Hawthorn Hill Elementary students learn about trains thanks to special presentation
Posted by GSDispatch Editor in by Lee’s Summit R7 School District, Edu
Arthur Simpkins, retired teacher and traveler, displayed part of his collection of Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends railway to the younger elementary students at Trailridge and Hawthorn Hill. Mr. Simpkins explained that the locomotives in the series were prototypes of European steam engines. The librarian, Sharon Murphy, read “Thomas Goes Fishing” before each of Mr. Simpkins’ presentations. Students also viewed primary documents from “The Railroad” by Bobbie Kalman to learn about steam engines. Students were exposed to information about how a steam engine worked and how the transcontinental track was built. Mr. Simpkins shared his vast knowledge of steam-powered locomotives.
