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Highland Adventist School students traveled to Beckley to tour the Exhibition Coal Mine.

Students learned about life in an early 20th century coal town including the importance of coal mining as well as the dangers.

ELKINS — Highland Adventist School students traveled to Beckley recently to tour the Exhibition Coal Mine.

The trip was part of the school’s program to highlight state history and culture. Students learned about life in an early 20th century coal town including the importance of coal mining as well as the dangers.

“Our students were fascinated with the stories they heard about the role of canaries in detecting air quality issues, the danger of methane gas explosion from the flame of carbide lamps, problems with roof falls, and so much more as they rode the coal cars through the mine,” stated Cheryl Jacko, principal. “The staff at the mine did a fabulous job of educating our students about what life was like for children in their homes, their school, and their church services.

“We came away very proud of our rich West Virginia heritage and thankful to the brave miners who spent their lives working underground.”

Highland Adventist School’s field trip program provides hands-on opportunities for students to learn. For more information, call 304-636-4274.