Seeing the world through the eyes of children...

Saturday, February 24th provided another wonderful opportunity to participate in a HTHSCV school/ elementary school partnership.

Under the leadership of Alan and Debbie Botterman, Lesley Anderson (HTHSCV Biology Teacher), and the Marine Biology students, we were able to participate in an eventful (first time this has be done!) field research outing. The Ichthyology (study of fishes) and Herpetology (study of amphibians and reptiles) class entertained a group of 1st and 2nd graders from a local elementary school in a special research outing related to Marine Science. Students from both schools “volunteered” (20 elementary, 22 high school) to participate in this activity – that is impressive!

The “young scientists” arrived at HTHSCV (with parents) as part of continuation of activities between the two schools in Marine Science/Zoology study. The high school students have visited the elementary school, but this was the first time the elementary students had come to the high school. After a brief round of introductions, the two groups of students divided up into “research teams” and proceeded on a tour of the science lab/studio. The lab is a fascinating arrangement of some 20 aquariums (salt and freshwater), several displays that house lizards and frogs, a “touch tank” (under construction that will eventually house various species of marine life that can be “handled”), and the “shark tank” with the two new “pups” that are increasing in size (now about 6-7 inches long) from a few weeks ago. A special treat was a small boa constrictor, that is the pet of one of the high school students, that students (and those brave adults) could touch and handle. Needless to say, the “young scientists” were initially apprehensive, but became more enthusiastic about handling a live snake. Proper care and handling were discussed throughout the experience.

The group then proceeded by bus to Pet Kingdom, a large pet shop in San Diego for the 2nd phase of our journey. We were greeted by one of the staff who discussed what types of animals, fish and equipment were available, and the importance of proper care for live marine and amphibious animals. Students were treated to looking and touching a large $4000.00 turtle (really!) and another staff member brought out a 14-foot red boa constrictor which blew everyone away by its size and weight. The “young scientists” were able to touch and hold (at various positions on the snake) the enormous reptile with one young man enjoying the snake “coiling around him” --- an amazing sight to see a 1st grader so composed! Combined student “research teams” were then asked to walk around the store and examine the many marine and amphibian displays. It was wonderful to see the “elders and youngers” engaged, laughing, asking questions and having responses from the older students, and simply having fun on their research trip. Some marine science equipment was purchased for both schools and we returned to HTHSCV for a pizza lunch (always and crowd favorite). After a few closing comments, hugs and certificates were handed out --- smiles and memories abound as everyone said goodbye for now!

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This is experiential, discovery and hands-on learning at its best. It was heartfelt to watch older students in the roles of mentors and guides for the younger students. Of significance to me was watching the younger students engaged in science and as adult member commented, “they all see themselves as future scientists – that is special!” A better example of a school partnership and collaboration I haven’t seen for quite some time. We need more opportunities like this in PK-12 schools --- and remind ourselves that sometimes the best teachers are the students themselves!