A trip to the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo was just one of many educational excursions our Summer Program students had the joy of experiencing.

This year, dozens of eager young students enrolled in MLK Montessori’s six-week Summer Program. Not only did the program help prevent “summer learning loss” and prepare these children for the upcoming 2018-2019 school year, but it also offered numerous opportunities for fun, hands-on learning and exploration.

Students of our summer program enjoyed tending the school's garden.

For example, students spent a significant amount of time this summer tending to the school’s garden. As a Montessori school, we believe in providing our students with as many hands-on experiences as we can. What better way to learn about the life cycle of a plant, about the weather, and about nutrition than by digging in the dirt and nurturing the growth of a tasty tomato plant or a beautiful flower?

Students also spent many hours monitoring the metamorphosis of their "pet caterpillars," which recently emerged as butterflies from their chrysalises. The students hosted a "butterfly release" and were absolutely amazed and enchanted as they watched the butterflies flutter around the school garden and enjoy the milkweed they had planted.

Finally, students enjoyed several summer field trips, including trips to the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory,Jungle George’s, the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, Science Central, and several local splash pads. While the field trips certainly provide fun diversions for our students, they also provide enriching educational experiences away from the regular school environment and complement the hands-on and interactive learning that is the hallmark of a Montessori education. Most importantly, though they give our students the opportunity to participate in cultural experiences they may otherwise miss out on.

A trip to local splash pads presented students an opportunity to cool off while getting fresh air, exercise, and time for creative free play.