From Classroom to Shoreline: How Guilford Elementary Set the Stage for a District-Wide Adventure

By Dacia Jones & Karisa Schwanekamp
Today, we're taking you on an exciting journey back to February 2022 when Expeditions in Education embarked on an educational odyssey at Guilford Elementary School in Plainfield, Indiana. Our first-ever "Crossing America" event took us to the heart of the Hoosier state, where we explored the fascinating world of science and national parks. This unforgettable day not only ignited a spark in the students' minds but also kick-started a district-wide adventure that's making waves to this day! Take a peek at the day here.

The Grand Gymnasium Gathering
We kicked off the day in the school's bustling gymnasium, where the entire school community gathered for a thrilling assembly. We were about to embark on a virtual journey across America, exploring the science behind seven national park sites, including the magnificent Indiana Dunes National Park. With awe-inspiring visuals and engaging presentations, we delved into the wonders of nature, biodiversity, and the ecosystems found within these national treasures. Indiana Dunes National Park, in particular, caught everyone's attention. Spanning 15,000 acres, it's a haven for adventure seekers, boasting 1,100 flowering plants, 350 species of birds, 50 miles of trails, and 15 miles of pristine Great Lake shoreline.

A Zoom Encounter with Ranger Kip
As our assembly came to a close, a surprise awaited the eager students. Through the magic of technology, we connected with none other than Ranger Kip, a real-life guardian of Indiana Dunes National Park! Live via Zoom, Ranger Kip shared his passion for preserving this natural wonder with the young minds in Plainfield. In a moment of excitement, Ranger Kip swore the entire school into the Junior Ranger program as a token of appreciation for their hard work and curiosity. The cheers and smiles on the students' faces were simply priceless!
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Engineering Design Challenge: Creating the Bacteria Meter
Following the assembly, it was time for hands-on learning, as we headed over to the fourth-grade classroom. Here, we embarked on a fascinating mission – tackling the Engineering Design Challenge crafted by Expeditions in Education.
The challenge? Design a bacteria meter that could be seamlessly embedded into swimwear. This high-tech meter would serve as a guardian angel for swimmers, alerting them when bacteria levels in the water became unsafe, ensuring their safety and well-being.
Indiana Dunes National Park: A Place of Adventure and Awareness

While Indiana Dunes National Park is undoubtedly a place of adventure and natural beauty, it also faces challenges. One such challenge is the occasional presence of high bacteria levels in the water, particularly after heavy rainfall. These elevated levels can pose a threat to swimmers' health. The solutions dreamed up by the fourth graders and Expeditions in Education were nothing short of ingenious. By creating a bacteria meter embedded in swimwear, they harnessed science and technology to protect beachgoers. When bacteria levels soared, the meter would send out an alert, prompting swimmers to exit the water and avoid potential health risks.

The Ripple Effect: Expanding Beyond Guilford Elementary
Now, fast forward to 2024, and the impact of our day at Guilford Elementary has rippled far beyond the school's walls. What started as a single event has transformed into a district-wide adventure. Other schools in Plainfield have embraced the "Crossing America" concept, and the Engineering Design Challenge has become a popular program. Students from across the district are now exploring national parks, getting inspired by Ranger Kip's stories, and tackling their own real-world challenges. The contagious spirit of curiosity and innovation is spreading like wildfire.

STEAM Dream Team: Students Changing the World
Plainfield students in fourth and fifth grade across the district have monthly opportunities at Plainfield’s middle school IdeaLab to connect with the national parks during the STEAM Dream Team after school club.  Expeditions in Education makes it easier than ever for students to connect with Park Rangers to solve real world problems. Fueled by knowledge and ignited with purpose, students feel empowered to be architects of positive change, sculpting a brighter future for us all. Click here to get a glimpse of the learning that is taking place! A picture is truly worth a thousand words.