Mrs. Morvilius’ students participated in different hikes over two school days as a field experiences to extend learning about Ohio’s different ecosystems. Students were able to observe plant and animal life living in each of the habitats. In addition the elevation change of the hiking path created the opportunity for students to observe different formations and landforms. Waterfalls, caves, creeks, ponds, lakes, beaches, marshes were all waiting to be seen.
Male Residential students walked the floating bridge on Punderson Lake, in Newbury, Ohio. They observed fish, frogs, turtles, insects of all kinds, blue herons, geese, and deer on their three mile hike around the park and lake. At the end of the trip students enjoyed pizza in the park and participated in some physical fitness activities on the trail.
Female residential students packed their bags, lunches, and froze bottles of water the night before as they all participated in the outdoors for some hands on learning. Students went to West Woods Park in Geauga County and walked the 4 mile nature trail. Students observed an oak forest with streams and ponds throughout. At the visitor center students used binoculars to observe a variety of birds at the wildlife feeding area and interacted with hands-on interpretive displays. Students then went on another two mile hike to see Ansel’s Cave. Due to the changes in elevation of the trail students were able to see what the park is doing to create bat sanctuaries and preserve waterfalls. Finally, after climbing trails and crossing bridges the students reached the outcropping of the cave.
Students enjoyed their sack lunches in the car and rested as they prepared for their kayaking experience at Headwaters Park in the Geauga Metro Parks. Students met with park rangers and were provided beginner instructions on how to paddle and move kayaks in the water. Soon after their lesson, students were in the water putting their newly learned skills to the test. Students stayed together as a group and kayaked around one of the islands on East Branch Reservoir with their teacher, Mrs. Morvilius and Carrington staff. Each student was successful in operating their kayaks and returning them to shore. Everyone even caught a quick glimpse of a Bald Eagle carrying a fish flying over their heads before disappearing into the shadows of the forest. Students thoroughly enjoyed Mother Nature’s beauties and learned how to enjoy activities in the outdoors in different types of ecosystems.