PAXTON, IL – On Monday, September 29th, the 7th grade students and staff at PBL Junior High experienced an outstanding day of applied learning at the Native American Unit Culminating Day Stations. The full-day event offered students an immersive experience, engaging them in the skills, customs, and lifeways of Central Illinois' Native American populations.
This enriching educational program was made possible, in part, by a thoughtful donation from an esteemed PBL CUSD #10 Hall of Fame alum.
Interactive Stations Bring History to Life
Students rotated through five distinct hands-on stations led by experts and school personnel:
Fire Building & Painting: Students learned essential survival skills by practicing fire building and experienced traditional artistry by painting with bear grease and earth pigments, guided by Mark Denzer of Cache Bayou Outfitters.
Atlatl & Hunting Methods: Dr. Grant Miller, a professor from Southern Illinois University, taught students about ancient hunting technologies, demonstrating the use of the atlatl—a tool used to propel a spear or dart.
Pottery: Students got their hands dirty exploring traditional Native American pottery techniques in a station led by Art Teacher Shawn Fairchild and 7th Grade Social Studies Teacher Chris Harper.
Cordage: The practical skill of making cordage (rope or string) from natural materials was taught by PBL Junior High Librarian Hannah Bruens, highlighting sustainable pre-industrial technologies.
Native American Drums: The cultural aspects of the unit were brought to life by Jay & Sweetie Bird, Ojibwe musicians and storytellers from Minnesota, who shared traditions that live on today among Native peoples.
Conclusion
The Culminating Day Stations served as a powerful and memorable finale to the 7th Grade Native American Unit. By integrating academic lessons with hands-on practice in technology, art, and cultural studies, our 7th graders gained a deeper and more personal appreciation for the customs, traditions, and rich culture of Native American populations who first called Central Illinois home. We thank all the presenters and volunteers for their contributions to this exceptional educational experience.
View pictures from the 7th Grade Native American Unit - Culminating Day Stations here: 7th Grade Native American Unit - Culminating Stations Day - September 29, 2025