Franklin Students Explore Great Outdoors

From Pottstown School District Director of Community Relations John J. Armato:

Thanks to a funding grant from the local Target Store, 50 third grade students from Franklin Elementary School were able to “explore the great outdoors” at French Creek State Park. 

The students were greeted by Park Educator Lisa Miller who led them on a nature walk through the bountiful woodlands. 

Along the way, students saw many animal habitats they had read and learned about in the classroom including a beaver’s lodge, birds’ nests, and a small stream which was home to countless tadpoles. 

Students took the opportunity to wade into the water and net tadpoles and fish. 

Franklin teacher, Mrs. Lawler noted, “It is thrilling to see the children see firsthand the busywork of various animals such as the beaver.”  One of our students exclaimed, “The trees look like our sharpened pencils!”

After a long morning of hiking, the students took a lunchtime break by spreading blankets and towels along the water’s edge where they ate their lunch and enjoyed the view of French Creek.  As part of their continued adventure in the outdoors, during lunch the students were greeted by a bold goose that was determined to crash their picnic and take part of their lunches.  Fortunately, with some gentle persuasion, the goose changed his mind and returned to the water.

Following lunch, the students were greeted by Smokey the Bear who offered many safety tips on preventing a forest fire and distributed bracelets, pencils, and coloring books for students to take back to school.

Mrs. Lawler explained, “A field trip of this nature has tremendous educational value to bring alive the lessons learned in the classroom experience.  We are fortunate to have a partner such as Target who made this trip possible.”  Several students were heard to exclaim as they were leaving the park, “This was the best day of the entire school year!”

JJAPRFES Great Outdoors 5-30-12