Gorge Field Trip

The whole elementry school is studying the Columbia River Gorge this year; with the appropriate context for their age groups. For example, one of the older classes (grades 1-3) is raising salmon from eggs - and Glen's class has had the opportunity to see the salmon at various stages of growth (with a student from the other class "teaching" the kindergarteners about what they were seeing).

A huge part of his school is about community - and he LOVES to be with the older kids. So, no surprise that last week's field trips were a huge hit!

First up was a trip to Buck Creek, which is on the west end of the gorge. Glen's class went with two other classes, and stopped at 7 "stations" along the trail. They talked about what they saw, heard, smelled, etc, answered some questions, and drew some pictures of trees with moss and other interesting items.




Tyler was lucky enough to join this field trip... here was his group of 11 kids, taking a break.

Then two days later, the same three classes took a very long field trip to Rowena Flats, which is on the East end of the Gorge. Same concept, except this time they were comparing what they saw on the East side with what they saw on the West side. Very cool lesson. And, they will repeat both trips in the Spring to talk about the difference in the seasons in each place.





Again, Tyler got to accompany the kids on this trip - they had a gorgeous day, and the kids loved this trip! Here they are sketching (for the kindergarteners) or writing about what they are seeing.



I think it is so neat that the Kindergarten class got to participate in this trip along with the bigger kids. They can't write yet, but they can still learn about the different trees and plants, and see changes from place to place.







The highlight of this trip, for Glen, was that Elliette (who is on his "team" at school) was in his group. There is a little bit of a crush there... which is totally innocent, and absolutely adorable. Here they are, basking in the sun after lunch. Glen is the man, and knows it. Can you just see them at prom together in 12 years?