The spirit of adventure was alive and well as 68 enthusiastic third-grade students from Tarver Elementary School descended upon our Outdoor Education Campus for an unforgettable field trip.
The day kicked off with great excitement as two buses rolled onto the campus at precisely 9:15 a.m. The students arrived with bright smiles and a sense of anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead.
Exploring Nature's Secrets:
The field trip was carefully organized, with students divided into four groups to participate in a rotation of engaging stations:
- Scavenger Hunt Adventure: In this station, students honed their observation skills while searching for hidden treasures in the sprawling natural surroundings. The scavenger hunt not only encouraged teamwork but also encouraged a deeper connection with the environment.
- Goat Education and Loafing Shed Adventure: At this station, students had a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with goats, visiting the charming loafing shed. Petting these gentle creatures was a highlight for many, fostering a sense of connection with the animal world.
- Chicken Education and Coop Visit: The chicken coop offered a captivating glimpse into the lives of these feathered friends. Students learned about the vital role chickens play in our ecosystem, fed them, and some even had the honor of holding one of the chickens!
- Buzzing with Bees: This station was a journey into the fascinating world of bees. A seasoned apiarist, Mr. Hahn, brought a mini bee hive complete with live bees. Each student had a mesmerizing opportunity to peer inside the hive, ask questions, and gain insights into the crucial role bees play in our environment.
Nature, Lunch, and Play:
After an educational morning, the young adventurers enjoyed a well-deserved lunch break amidst the serene natural surroundings. Laughter filled the air as they explored the campus's playground, celebrating the joy of learning and outdoor play.
Gratitude and Community Support:
The success of this educational adventure was made possible through the generous support of Adams County, which provided funding for development of outdoor classrooms through Open Space grants. These grants have been instrumental in creating the Outdoor Education spaces that serve as invaluable community resources.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to Tarver Elementary School for choosing Westgate's Outdoor Education Campus for their field trip destination. The school community is delighted to have been a part of this exciting adventure, and we look forward to hosting more enriching experiences in the future.
As the day concluded, it was evident that the memories created at the Outdoor Education Campus will leave a lasting impression on our young visitors. Westgate remains committed to providing whole child, gifted learning experiences and is excited to continue sharing the beauty of the natural world with the community.
For more information about Westgate's Outdoor Education Campus, please contact: [email protected]