Three buses of freshmen accompanied by 17 chaperones will head to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty in New York City on June 6 at 7:30 a.m. The 147 students expect to return to Ludlow at 7:30 p.m.
Both Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty are historic destinations. Ellis Island opened in 1892 and began welcoming immigrants into the United States. Between 1892 and 1984 Ellis Island had 12 million immigrants pass through. Ellis Island includes the “Wall of Honor” on which those who have entered America have engraved their names.
The Statue of Liberty has become a figurehead of national pride and liberty over the years, but was originally a symbol of friendship from the French given in 1986.
“It was the kids’ idea to go to New York. We contacted the travel agency and the Ellis Island trip was the most affordable,” explains freshman class advisor Charles Cangemi. The trip is $45 and students are advised to bring at least $10 for lunch. The freshmen will be eating lunch at Ellis Island.
“I didn’t know how many [students] were interested initially, so we ordered three buses which can carry 50 students each. Three buses were just about filled and no kids were turned away, so I’m happy with the turn out,” said Cangemi.
So far students seem pleased with their destination.”This is some place I would have picked. It’ll be fun to see the Statue of Liberty and get away from school for a while,” said freshman Hayley Johnson.
