New! Salmon in the Classroom

The Salmon in the Classroom program, in partnership with the Franklin Conservation District, provides an opportunity for students to access and experience real-world, project-based outdoor learning with local relevance across the curriculum. In addition to covering grade level content learning standards, it also addresses the Washington Integrated Environmental and Sustainability standards. 

Throughout the year, fourth grade students observe and participate in the process of raising salmon from eggs in a tank, observing the life cycle firsthand as well as making connections in math by learning about measuring water quality.  

The salmon release field trip is the culmination of learning about the life cycle, anatomy and migration of Chinook salmon, the natural and human environmental impact on salmon and their role in local Native American culture as part of the history of our state and region. They also learn about economic impact in our state and region along with sustainability. Students explore current issues like the Snake River dams and other barriers to salmon survival and develop solutions.