Fourth and fifth graders at Sacred Heart Elementary School will take a step back in time to the pioneer days as part of the Yosemite Environmental Living Program.  During an overnight visit at Yosemite on May 20, students will confront the problems of the pioneers by performing tasks such as cooking, blacksmithing, spinning, candle dipping, covered wagon packing, square dancing and craft making — all without electricity.

“Through this program students will discover land issues in the past that reflect conflicts we deal with today,” said teacher Kevin Crivelli.

Crivelli has been leading ELP at Sacred Heart for seven years and takes between 50 and 100 students each year to Yosemite National Park.

“In ELP, students will stay at the Pioneer Yosemite History center and live the roles of historical figures during the 19th century that influenced the development and protection of Yosemite National Park,” said Crivelli.