Teachers Hold Class in Nature
Environmental Science classes have taken an initiative to spend some lessons outside to take advantage of the plentiful resources available at the reservoir, allowing certain classes to be taught entirely outside, or just have students go to the reservoir to collect data for experiments.
AP Environmental Science teacher Jeffery Boyce has been teaching for 20 years and in each of his classes he aims to go outside for certain lessons. “From day one, anytime I can get the kids outside and actually do environmental science in the environment, that’s what we’re gonna do,” he said.
Resources and materials are already available in the classrooms, so not every lesson needs to be outside, but when classes are outside, it’s beneficial to learning. Often, teachers carry out instruments to help students gather information about the world around them.
“If I can validate going outside because it makes sense for a unit, I’ll do it.” Boyce said.
Going Outdoors Improves Mental Health
The reservoir is commonly used by students as an area of recreation. And often, being around plants and nature often help students cool down from any stress caused by school.
“[When] you surround yourself with an environment where you can feel deep relaxation,” senior Addie McWilliams said. “It can lift [you] out of a bad mood.”
Students with cars drive down to the reservoir after-school or during their off-period, but it’s also open through paths; students who don’t have access to a car take strolls to the reservoir.
“It’s nice to be out in nature, it’s calming and breathable,” freshman Ace Castaneda said.
The park has a lot of trails to take, walk their dogs, connect with nature, or simply enjoy a moment of peace. Going to the park can give students a break from anything from their homework or their jobs, and instead of stressing, they can relax and connect with nature.
“There’s endless things you could do at the reservoir and anything you pick can boost mental health,” McWilliams said.
When Weather is Warm, Students Enjoy the Outdoors
The 4,000 acres of the reservoir allow for so many different activities, and as school lets out and temperatures rise, the state park becomes a second home for many teens looking to unwind.
“I come out here almost every weekend once summer hits,” junior Sofae Berzon said. “It’s the best way to cool off and hang out with friends.”
Part of the appeal is how close the reservoir is to Creek. Located just a short drive from campus, it’s convenient for quick day trips and last-minute hangouts. For students who don’t have the time or budget to plan a full vacation during the summer, the reservoir offers an affordable way to have fun without leaving the city.
The variety of things to do also makes the reservoir a popular hangout spot. Students can do anything from swimming, paddle boarding, boating, and more that make great summer experiences. Junior Joey Gleason shares his favorite thing to do at the reservoir
“At the beginning of every summer me and a bunch of friends grab our paddle boards and go to the reservoir,” Gleason said. “We all swim out to the middle of the reservoir and wack each other with our paddles until we all fall off, it’s really fun.”
However the fun for students isn’t limited to just the water. The park is surrounded by miles of paved and dirt trails, making it a hotspot for bikers, runners, and walkers.
““I like to road bike on the trails through the reservoir,” junior Kieran Monroe said. “The paths are really nice compared to other places, and it’s a great way for me to get my cardio in during the summer.”
