“As someone who went to Miller Ridge Elementary all throughout my elementary years, being able to go back as a senior in high school was very nostalgic,” shared Equine Science Senior, Ashley Kidwell when students from the Veterinary Science program at the Natural Science Center (NSC) recently visited Miller Ridge Elementary School in Middletown.
The visit was part of their Work Based Learning initiative, a series of visits to local elementary schools to share their knowledge and animals with the students firsthand. The Veterinary Science students brought along multiple residents of NSC, including snakes, rabbits, tortoises, ferrets, chinchillas, chameleons, and insects, to introduce elementary students to the world of animals.
“Being able to see the kids’ faces light up when we showed them the animals made me wish that when I was that young, I had the same opportunity,” said Kidwell. “It was also great to see teachers that I used to have remember me and be interested in what I am doing now.”
Throughout the visit, the students not only showcased the animals but also took on the responsibility of teaching elementary students about their habitats, diets, behaviors, and more. This hands-on approach allowed the young learners to engage directly with the animals while gaining a deeper understanding of their needs and characteristics.
Each time the students go out, they adapt their lessons to suit the grade level of their audience, ensuring that each interaction is informative and engaging. These visits also provide an opportunity for the Veterinary Science students to monitor animal behaviors in different environments, closely observing how the animals interacted with the elementary students and their surroundings.
Tara Brown, Veterinary Science Instructor shared that at the Natural Science Center, they encourage their students to teach what they’ve learned. The students not only gain valuable skills through their presentations, but Brown says they remember what it’s like to be a young kid discovering their passion that will shape their future.
“And that makes it all worth it. I’m incredibly proud of the students and what they’ve accomplished with this group.”
