Lakeview kindergarten classes utilize science, prepare school garden for the spring

On Friday, Jan. 20, students in Ms. Guy’s kindergarten class at Lakeview Elementary School used their scientific brains to problem solve how to put a penguin in a bucket of water without getting him wet. For this STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) exercise, the children worked in groups to first design their creations, then build them using found objects in the classroom. Testing them was the best part! The students enjoyed demonstrating how they thought their creations would work, as well as testing them for the class!

Lakeview garden
It’s been a rainy winter, so it was the perfect time to host an assembly showcasing the school’s garden! On Friday, Jan. 20, kindergarten students were taught about the importance of soil. They learned that soil feeds the plants, which, in turn, feeds the children’s bodies. The group talked about nourishing the soil through composting; in other words, taking greens (e.g., vegetable and fruit scraps, coffee grinds, and tea bags) and mixing it with browns (e.g., dried leaves, shredded cardboard and paper) to provide nutrients for the soil. Did you know that Lakeview composts with red wigglers? Mrs. Thompson, Mrs. Goyette and childcare classrooms all participate in worm composting. As a part of the assembly, Daniel Hopp awarded four lucky students in kindergarten and Preppy K with a kale plant to grow in their classroom. The classes plan to make kale chips or Toscana soup once the plant is large enough for everyone to consume.

The aquaponics (i.e., fish tank and garden in the library) is thriving! The school has some very successful lemon and lime basil, lettuces, and starts for strawberries and lavenders, both of which will be moved outside once the temperature rises.

Soon, Lakeview will start some strawberry seeds and other plants in preparation for the spring season. If you haven’t seen the garden on the Valley View Avenue side of the school, it will soon feature Kohlrabi, cabbage, broccoli and tomatoes to harvest!