Fifth graders at Charles C. Bell Elementary are taking their classrooms outdoors this school year through the School’s in Parks program, a unique opportunity that connects learning with the beauty of North Carolina’s state parks.
Last week, students kicked off their journey at Lake James State Park, where they explored both land and water. Students spent the day canoeing across the lake, hiking scenic trails, and diving into the history of the park. Along the way, park officials guided the fifth graders through hands-on lessons about how human activity can change habitats and why conservation matters.
One highlight of the trip was a series of interactive activities on erosion and water. Students saw firsthand how the movement of water shapes the land, deepening their understanding of natural science beyond the textbook.
For some students this experience provided the opportunity to try canoeing for the first time, as they navigated teamwork on the water.
“Students learned that only by working together can you move forward, otherwise you will be spinning in circles,” said fifth grade teacher Olga Luchinina. “It was amazing to see them try something new and enjoy it in the end.”
By combining outdoor exploration with curriculum based lessons, the School’s in Park program helps students develop critical thinking skills while fostering a lifelong appreciation for the environment. For this group of fifth graders, this adventure is just beginning - with more parks and discoveries waiting ahead.
