Weilenmann School is fortunate to be situated in a natural mountain setting, literally surrounded by nature itself. Recently, our 7th graders teamed up with their 1st grade Buddies for an outdoor adventure right in our own backyard! Armed with binoculars, microscopes, and a shared sense of curiosity, the pairs tracked birds, examined plants and insects up close, and even identified animal scat to figure out just who lives in the local habitat we refer to as our “outdoor classroom.”
Our middle schoolers loved stepping into the roles of student mentors and our 1st graders were thrilled to have big-kid guides leading the way. As the younger students investigated the physical features and life cycles of local wildlife, their 7th grade mentors put their own knowledge to the test by answering their questions. This caused them to reflect and respond with simple, real-world explanations, and reinforced their own understanding in the process.
“Real science happens when kids get out into nature and ask big questions,” maintains Principal Elizabeth Phillips. “Learning alongside peers and across grade levels creates unique connections and turns everyday science lessons into genuine fun.”
