On Thursday and Friday, May 26-27, my fourth grade class participated in the Environmental Living Program at Sutter’s Fort in Sacramento. This is an authentic learning experience where students spend two days living and working the way California pioneers did in 1846 during the time of the Bear Flag Revolt. Thanks to all the parents, relatives and friends of my students who sacrificed their time and energy to get us to the fort. Thank you El Dorado Community Foundation, Kiwanis Club of Tahoe Sierra, South Lake Tahoe Rotary Club, and Soroptimists International of South Lake Tahoe for generous grants! In addition, the Kiwanis hosted another successful bingo night for us. Thank you Safeway, Starbucks, Sno Frozen Yogurt Cafe, Adam Jones, and Richard and Carol Matera for your support. We are also extremely grateful to Tahoe Valley Elementary PTA’s support and commitment to our school’s students. A heartfelt thanks to individuals who commit their time and service to this event year after year: Tom Tazelaar, Kelley Pedigo, Ali Kipke, Mike and Tasha Thomas, along with the Cromwell and Wright families. Thanks to Overland Meats for delicious tri-tips and chickens, and C-Meeks for wood to build our tool boxes.

All together we made this year’s trip back in time to Sutter’s Fort a successful and unforgettable educational journey. Thank you all for allowing our students the opportunity to understand and appreciate California History during the 1840s.

Gene Matteucci and his Fourth Grade Pioneers

South Lake Tahoe, Calif.