Our primary students recently embarked on an exciting field trip to Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve. What an incredible day it was! Packed with adventure, discovery, and hands-on learning, the day offered our young explorers the perfect chance to connect with nature and experience the wonder of God’s creation up close.
The adventure began with a pond study, where students eagerly grabbed their nets and waded into discovery. With every scoop from the pond’s edge, they uncovered fascinating creatures: bug larvae, snails, fish, leeches, dragonfly larvae, algae blobs, back striders, and even a frog! Guided by an expert naturalist, students sorted through their “catch,” learning to identify living and nonliving things. The excitement grew as they brought their finds back to the learning center, where they got a closer look under the microscope, sparking awe and curiosity in every student.
From the water to the woods, our students then headed out on a sensory nature hike. As they walked through the forest, they used all five senses to explore the world around them. They saw a variety of trees and plants, heard the calls of birds in the distance, and smelled the earthy aroma of the forest floor. They touched bark that was rough, leaves that were smooth, and even came across a few slimy surprises! One of the most memorable moments? Tasting a tree! (Don’t worry—it was safe and approved by our guide!)
Along the trail, our guide helped the students identify different plant species, signs of wildlife, and even owl pellets. The hike wasn’t just a walk in the woods; it was a rich, sensory experience that deepened their appreciation for the natural world.
This fun-filled day at Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve gave our students a chance to learn outside the classroom, exploring the beauty and complexity of the environment with joyful curiosity. They left with muddy boots, smiling faces, and a deeper understanding of the world God created for us to care for and enjoy.
To check out photos from the trip, visit our Facebook page at St. Bernard School or follow us on Instagram at @stbernardgb!
St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school that serves preschool and elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.
