This was among the sights from Medieval Times in Schaumburg on Wednesday, Nov. 19, when Paxton-Buckley-Loda Junior High School seventh-graders embarked on an educational field trip there. Courtesy of the Paxton-Buckley-Loda school district
SCHAUMBURG — Paxton-Buckley Loda Junior High School seventh graders embarked on an educational field trip to the Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in suburban Schaumburg on Wednesday, Nov. 19.
The excursion served as the culmination to the students’ “Identity in the Middle Ages” unit, a key component of their new English language arts curriculum. The field trip was funded by a grant from the PBL Education Foundation, covering the cost of tickets, lunch and transportation.
Throughout the school year, the seventh graders delved into the medieval period through research, reading and narrative writing. The trip to Medieval Times provided an interactive and immersive experience, bringing their classroom studies to life. Students witnessed live performances, including jousting tournaments and historical reenactments, and enjoyed a traditional medieval meal.
“Upon arrival, students were transported to a world where kingdoms unite in celebration, though rumors of betrayal hint at impending drama,” a news release from the school district stated. “They were captivated by intense sword fights and jousting, as six valiant knights competed for the title of defender of the realm. The two-hour tournament featured magnificent horses, authentic combat, and a delicious feast, creating an unforgettable spectacle.”
Student Reflections
The students were overwhelmingly enthusiastic about the trip, with many sharing their favorite moments:
“Probably my favorite part was the food. It was literally so so so so so so so so so so so so good!” — Saylor Wooten
“I would like to thank you for giving me and my grade the experience at Medieval Times!” — Brandon Tuell
“I loved all of the horses and the jousting. Medieval Times was great!” — Kinley Bloomstrand
“I was skeptical of the food, but then I gave in and it was really good! I wish to thank you.” — Wyatt Wintjen
“The experience was so cool and intriguing. My favorite part was the falcon flying all around the stadium.” — Charlotte Duncan
“I would love to have more field trips like this because it was so awesome. Thank you!” — Brayden Young
“I loved getting a flower from the knight!” — Persephone Long
“I just want to say thank you so much for funding the trip, and it is the most fun and crazy experience that I ever went to.” — Michael Tjarks
“My favorite part of the trip was eating the food while watching the sparks fly off the swords. Thank you for letting this be possible; I will never forget that day.” — Jace Simmons
“The garlic bread was delectable. I loved that we could go, and I hope that the grades below us have the opportunity to go, too. I am forever thankful!” — Louise Foster
“Thank you for letting me get a day off from school and an awesome trip!” — Tomasi Suaava
“My mom got to go on the trip with me, and she had a great time!” — Aubrey Dirks