Mr. Fairbanks Brings History to Life with Paintball Trip

On Thursday, October 2nd, Mr. Fairbanks took his students on a unique assignment to the paintball field. The outing marked the first off-campus activity for his new elective class, Hands-on History.

Mr. Fairbanks, who teaches Film, Hands on History, Dual Credit U.S. History, and Dual Credit Government, brought his students to take part in this paintball experience. The paintball trip was designed to bring historical concepts to life through active learning, fitting the World War I unit his Hands on History class was exploring.

Hands-on History, a new elective available to juniors and seniors, blends traditional classroom instruction with immersive, real-world activities. “In the Hands-on History class, we study a specific historical period, then find a hands-on activity to connect with what we’ve learned,” Mr. Fairbanks explained. This new approach encourages students to engage with history in a dynamic way, both inside and outside the classroom.

Mr. Fairbanks believes that this approach is transforming how students engage with history. “I think they are learning in a new way, so the goal is to get them to experience history in a different light,” he explained. By stepping outside the traditional classroom setting, students are encouraged

to connect with historical concepts through action, reflection, and teamwork, engaging with these ideas in a. fun and hands on way.

With paintball being the first off-campus activity that the class partook in, students are looking forward to the next one. “I had fun. I think it w

as a good experience to go out there and have fun with my classmates and friends and for everyone to just socialize,” said senior Baxter Jensen. The day not only brought history to life, but also helped to build relationships among the students.