"Salmon Seekers" Connects Third Graders to Nature Through Hands-On Science
- sylvieb138
- Jun 18
- 2 min read
Student Scientists in Action: Building a Deeper Connection to Local Ecosystems
This spring, third-grade classrooms across North Kitsap transformed into real-life hatcheries. With the help of a grant from the North Kitsap Schools Foundation, students at David Wolfle, Poulsbo, Suquamish, and Vinland Elementary Schools participated in the Salmon Seekers program. This powerful, hands-on learning experience brought the salmon life cycle out of the textbook and into the classroom, making it a truly engaging experience.
From Egg to Stream: Real-World Science in Action
Funded by educators Jennifer Lorella and Katie Lee, the program guided students through each stage of the chum salmon’s life. Hatchery tanks in classrooms allowed students to observe salmon eggs up close, watch them develop into alevin, and witness their growth into fry, ready for release into Dogfish Creek.
For many students, it was the first time they had ever seen a fish hatch or thought about the journey a salmon must take to survive. It was more than just science; it was awe.
One Vinland Elementary student was so captivated by the project that he took it upon himself to become the classroom expert, carefully monitoring the hatchery each morning. On the day of the salmon release, he proudly explained to his parents why cold, clean water is critical for young salmon, using proper scientific vocabulary and concepts. That kind of depth and excitement doesn’t come from a worksheet—it comes from real, memorable learning.
Place-Based Learning that Sticks
With 160 students participating across four schools, the project not only taught science but also built connections to local ecosystems and highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship. Teachers reported that the program met all its intended goals and then some. The experience made learning tangible and deeply personal, helping students understand the value of protecting the natural resources right in their own backyard.
The schools shared highlights in newsletters and morning announcements, and next year, teachers hope to expand the program to include a field trip to Chico Creek, one of our local salmon-bearing streams.
Investing in the Future
The Salmon Seekers program is one example of how the North Kitsap Schools Foundation helps create meaningful educational experiences that spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of scientists, leaders, and community members. With your continued support, programs like these will not only return but grow.
Want to support more programs like this?
Learn how you can give: https://www.nkschoolsfoundation.org/donate
Because strong schools build strong communities.
Commenti