Chandler Fourth Graders Build Covered Wagons in Hands-On History Project

Article and Photos courtesy of CHANDLER SCHOOL FEBRUARY 3, 2026

Chandler School Fourth graders took learning into the maker space this week as they designed and built covered wagons inspired by the Overland Trail! As part of their California Studies unit, students explored what it took for families to travel west, thinking carefully about materials, function, durability and the challenges pioneers faced along the journey. From problem-solving and collaboration to creativity and hands-on engineering, this project brought history to life in a powerful (and fun) way.