Middletown, CT - January 15, 2024 – On Wednesday, January 15, 2024, fourth-grade students at Farm Hill Elementary School were in for a unique treat when Jason from the Hungerford Center visited their school with an array of fascinating animals. The visit, which took place during the school day, allowed students to meet and learn about a chinchilla, snake, ferret, turtle, and chicken in an engaging, hands-on educational experience.
The students, who were accompanied by their teachers Mrs. Shaw, Ms. Japs, and Ms. James, gathered excitedly as Jason introduced each of the animals. The event provided the fourth graders an opportunity to connect with nature and learn about animal care, habitats, and environmental conservation in a memorable way.
Jason, a staff member of the Hungerford Center in Berlin, shared his expertise on each animal, offering valuable insights into their lives and behaviors. The students were especially intrigued by the chinchilla, known for its soft fur and playful nature, and Jason explained how these animals are adapted to survive in cold, mountainous regions.
The snake was another highlight of the visit, with students eagerly listening. Students learned how snakes contribute to ecosystems by controlling pest populations.
The turtle, a calm and slow-moving creature, captivated the students as Jason shared fascinating facts about reptiles, including their long lifespans and unique adaptations.
Throughout the visit, the teachers—Mrs. Shaw, Ms. Japs, and Ms. James—encouraged their students to ask questions and engage directly with the animals, fostering an interactive and enriching learning experience. The visit allowed students to gain a deeper appreciation for animals and the natural world.
“This was an incredible opportunity for our students to learn about animals in a way that’s both fun and educational,” said Mrs. Shaw. “Jason and the team from the Hungerford Center really brought these animals to life for our students, and it was wonderful to see their excitement as they interacted with each one.”
The visit from the Hungerford Center is part of an ongoing effort to bring engaging, real-world learning experiences to students at Farm Hill through the Reaching Beyond the Classroom Grant program. By offering these hands-on encounters with animals, the Hungerford Center helps to inspire curiosity about biology, ecology, and the importance of animal conservation.
Farm Hill Elementary’s fourth graders left the event with new knowledge about the animals they had met, eager to share what they had learned with their families.