Articles

AES students broaden horizons at Gef Pa'go Park

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jamie Lessard
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam --  Andersen Elementary School students caught a glimpse of early 20th century Chamorro culture during a recent field trip to Gef Pa'go Park in historic Inalahan, Guam.
Gef Pa'go Park is one of Guam's last remnants of Spanish era village life that offers demonstrations and exhibits showcasing the daily life of the Chamorro people.

Along with the visit to the park, the students also visited the Leon Guerrero historic home that was built in 1901. The foundation of the home was built using a process called manposteria (a mixture of rock and lime powder made from coral).

The house's structure was made from ifit wood found in the northern portion of the island. Ifit wood was commonly used for houses in the early 1900's due to its strength and resistance to termites.

"The most important thing is that the students are learning about Chamorro culture and the skills of the past that can now be seen as an art form," said Barbara Mantanona, executive director of operations at Gef Pa'go.

Culture teachers at AES have been instructing students on Chamorro history, life styles, tools used and legends of Guam. During their visit to Gef Pa'go, the students received hands-on experience in rope making, salt production, basket weaving and had the chance to ride a caribou.

"Having the opportunity to see demonstrations and have hands-on activities was enlightening to students," said Cynthia Miller, a first grade teacher at AES. "It built an awareness of local culture and resources, furthering their appreciation of the Chamorro culture and the island in which they live."

According to the first grade teachers at AES, field trips like these only further enhance the classroom experience and strengthen ties with their understanding of the Chamorro culture. Students also learned the importance of maintaining and documenting culture through the generations.

"We are so fortunate to have the students from Andersen visiting our cultural village and hope to see you all again next time," said Ms. Mantanona.

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