Manito Park was bustling even more than usual in late May as about 1,400 elementary school students turned the 90-acre public park into their classroom over two days last week.
“I like science because I like plants. I don’t like exhaust from cars because it kills the plants.”
Students from Grant, Hutton, Jefferson, Mullan Road, Roosevelt, Wilson elementaries, and Ruben Trejo Dual Language Academy skipped through the park, visiting stations hosted by Lewis and Clark High School National Honor Society students to teach them about soil and water quality, plant and animal life, engineering, and even history and art.
“It’s important for kids to know science, and to get to experience it in a park that’s in their community is really special.”
LC students Raghad, Sherlyn, Lola, Morgan, Julia and Tessa, who were stationed at the park’s Washington Memorial, enjoyed sharing history about the first president – and our state’s namesake – with the young students, as well as discussing what other materials could be used to create art in the park.
“Think about the materials you have and what you have to do.”
Sacajawea Middle School students also contributed to the event, assembling 400 engineering kits with construction papers and pipe cleaners. Students used these to design and construct their own bridges after considering the materials used to make Manito’s Stone Bridge nearly 100 years ago.
“The butterflies love the lilacs, so if we walk very quietly—” “Look! There’s one!”
In between science experiments and field journal sketching, students from kindergarten to fifth grade climbed on playground toys and swan sculptures, enjoyed shade and snacks at the Park Bench, and stopped to smell the lilacs.
Experiential learning opportunities on field trips help students connect classroom learning to the real world. It’s great to see students connecting with nature, learning, and neighbors as part of Engage IRL!
Manito Park Science Field Trip by Spokane Schools
IN THE NEWS
KREM 2 News: 1,400 Spokane students take 'In Real Life' field trip to Manito Park
KHQ NonStop Local: 'IRL field trips' in Manito Park spark student engagement
The Spokesman-Review: ‘Science is everywhere’: Spokane Public Schools hosts experiential learning field trip at Manito Park