Talkback: News

School report results in state vernal pool designation

BY ANITA FRITZ RECORDER STAFF

Published on February 03, 2009

GREENFIELD -- Thomas Perham and Tristen Conolly say they never imagined their seventh-grade project would lead to anything more than a better understanding of vernal pools and a good grade.

But at the end of last week, they learned all of their hard work had paid off in a much bigger way. The vernal pool they have explored at Highland Park for months has now been certified by the state -- thanks to them and their 34 classmates.

A vernal pool is a pond that appears in the spring with the melting of winter snows and dries up later in the year, but still provides habitat for many animals during a crucial time of their life cycles.

Reader comments:

Real science for middle-schoolers, hooray!! I am so impressed with all that the Four Rivers Public Charter School has done to bring education into the 21st century. Let the rest of the public school system take inspiration from the accomplishments of these hard-working, caring, innovative teachers.

By chartershool mom Tuesday, Feb 03, 2009 at 04:13 PM

It's impressive what young people can do with motivation, gentle guidance and the absence of micro-management. Something in which the school can take pride.

By Doug Raybeck Tuesday, Feb 03, 2009 at 03:31 PM

Bucktail, what does that even mean? What in the world does Al Norman have to do with this? This is an article about an accomplishment by some of our community's children. Just stop it already, you embarrass yourself.

By Knock it off. Tuesday, Feb 03, 2009 at 01:21 PM

HomeDepoptCinderBlocks: I read your essay several times, trying to get your message. You must have a point -- Wanna try it again, maybe after a nap and some fresh air... and in English ?

By Wally Tuesday, Feb 03, 2009 at 11:21 AM

Gee, sure glad these kids found that pool before Al Norman did!

By Bucktail Tuesday, Feb 03, 2009 at 08:29 AM