In a bid to extend their learning beyond the confines of the classroom, Sixth-grader’s from Renaissance Elementary Magnet School recently embarked on a field work opportunity to the Plum Creek Water Purification Facility in Castle Rock. The excursion aimed to deepen their understanding of the intricate cycling of water.
The students were immersed in a hands-on experience, witnessing firsthand the processes involved in treating water for consumption. From the initial intake of raw water, flocculation, micro filtration, and ultraviolet radiation to the final distribution of clean, potable water, the students marveled in every step of the journey.
“This field trip provided our students with a unique opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting,” remarked Mrs. Jena, one of the accompanying teachers. “It's one thing to read about the water cycle in a book, but working with a water scientist in the lab, utilizing the latest cutting edge technology, and analyzing our town water helped solidified their wonderings.”
At Renaissance Elementary Magnet School, “We believe that experiential learning is key to fostering a deeper connection with the subject matter,” explained Mrs. JoAnna Dietz, another teacher on the trip. “By witnessing the water treatment process firsthand, students gain a newfound appreciation for the problems water scientist’s are faced with to bring Douglas County residents clean water, a resource often taken for granted.”
As the fieldwork concluded, the students departed with a wealth of knowledge and a newfound appreciation for the intricate systems that ensure access to clean water. They returned to the classroom, eager to continue their exploration of Earth’s water and it’s natural processes.
