C-A Middle School 5th and 6th grade students took part on an exciting hands on learning experience at Riverside Park in Coxsackie for a “Day in the Life of the River” field trip.
Joining our middle school students on the trip were several high school students from Mr. Hudson’s class. They helped throughout the day while also having the opportunity to learn more about the Hudson River. They were a great example for our middle schoolers!
Students rotated through several interactive stations where they learned about the Hudson River, the creatures living in it, and the many careers connected to life on the river.
One of the highlights was getting an up-close look at the different types of fish and other aquatic life found in the Hudson River. Students even watched a demonstration from real river workers, who showed them how they use nets to safely catch and study these creatures.
Students also learned about the movement of the river, including how the water ebbs and flows. They explored tides and the knowledge and skills that people working on the river need to understand in their careers.
At another station, students focused on the water itself. They learned how scientists and environmental professionals test the water in the Hudson and got to try their hand at creating their own makeshift water filters. The hands-on activity gave students a chance to see how different materials can be used to help filter water.
The field trip provided students with a fun opportunity to step outside the classroom and experience learning in a whole new environment. More importantly, students were able to see firsthand how their classroom learning connects to real world careers and the natural environment right here in their own community.
Opportunities like this are an important part of helping our students see what is possible beyond the classroom. By giving students the chance to explore real-world careers and meet people who work in different fields, we can help them begin to think about what they might want to pursue after graduation. At Coxsackie-Athens, we are committed to continually improving the opportunities we provide our students and giving them the knowledge and tools they need to be successful in whatever path they choose after high school.
Thank you to our middle school teachers and everyone involved for a wonderful day of learning!