Mrs. Hand’s STEM Biology Unit has been especially interesting in the past few weeks, as Lower School students welcomed two amazing guest speakers to help deepen their understanding of animal life cycles, animal habitats, and animal adaptations such as camouflage, locomotion, and protection.

In October, students in 3rd-5th grade were excited to welcome to campus guest speaker Dave Johnson, co-founder of the Katie Adamson Conservation Fund (KACF). This non-profit organization helps endangered animal species throughout the world through education and community engagement.

A conservationist and retired Pachyderm Zookeeper, Johnson has authored three conservation picture books and travels extensively around the world to educate kids of all ages about endangered species.

In November, K-2nd grade students were treated to a visit from wildlife specialist and educator Addie Carter from the Center for Birds of Prey. The hour-long program included multiple birds from the Center’s educational collection, as well as discussions of conservation and natural history. Students enjoyed learning about many raptor species, including the peregrine falcon, the barred owl, and the hawk. Throughout the presentation, students had the opportunity to ask questions and get an up-close look at these amazing raptors. They especially loved the hawk, which flew all around the PAC and landed on the basketball net!   

Bringing in guest speakers is such a fun way for students to learn more about our STEM units. These experts taught us so much about animals in the wild, their unique features and adaptations, and how we can help take care of God’s amazing creation. They also inspired the students to explore future careers in these fields. 

- Abby Hand, Lower School STEM Mentor