A guest blog by Kathy Biernat, MS
Having Shelly, the classroom turtle, and our finned friends in the science classroom wasn’t just educational, it was a catalyst for learning and connection. It was a recipe for camaraderie and a springboard for engaging STEM lessons!
Shelly the Turtle – A Classroom Mascot
Shelly, with her slow and steady pace, became a classroom mascot. Watching her munch on leafy greens fostered a sense of responsibility for her well-being, uniting students in her care. Students loved finding crickets for her and even the school janitor was part of her care – he made her organic, chopped salads and helped care for her over vacations. Shelley’s presence sparked curiosity, leading to discussions about reptile biology, habitat needs, and camouflage. I recently ran into a student I had in my classroom over ten years ago – she said, “Do you still have Shelley? I don’t remember much about junior high, but I remember our turtle!”.
Fish – Providing Hands-On Science Lessons
Shelly wasn’t the only aquatic friend we had. Our aquaponic setup, where fish waste nourished plants, wasn’t just about showcasing a sustainable food system. Students observed the fish and the plants and hypothesized about water temperature, nitrogen levels and oxygen levels in the tank. They witnessed the symbiotic relationship between plants and fish, learned about water filtration, and even monitored water quality parameters. It was a hands-on lesson in ecology happening right in the classroom.
We also hosted GloFish. The vibrant friends, each named after a famous scientist like Dimitri Mendeleeve, Sir Isaac and Marie Curie, became conversation starters. We’d discuss the scientists’ contributions while admiring the fish’s glowing scales, making science history a little more memorable. But they also investigated how different wavelengths of light affect the fluorescence of GloFish, and examined the relationship between light and color perception.
The Classroom Pet Experience
Of course, caring for Shelly and the fish presented some challenges. Balancing their needs with classroom activities required careful planning. But with a little creativity and collaboration, we found solutions. Students took turns monitoring the water quality, and we even built a special basking area for Shelly using recycled materials
Overall, Shelly and the fish weren’t just classroom pets, they were interactive learning tools that fostered a sense of community and made STEM lessons come alive. It was a shell-ebration of science and a fin-tastic way to connect with my students! This experience has inspired me to encourage other teachers to explore the possibilities of bringing animals into their classrooms responsibly. Sharing the Pets in the Classroom resources and grant opportunities at the recent National Science Teacher Association meeting in Denver was so much fun- especially hearing stories about other pets and encouraging teachers to adopt a classroom pet themselves. The positive impact on student engagement and learning can be truly transformative.
Kathy Biernat, MS, is an award-winning educator with over 18 years of teaching experience and 30 years of curriculum design expertise. She’s renowned for integrating real-world problems into the curriculum, fostering authentic learning experiences, and connecting students with professionals. A five-time national award winner, Kathy’s innovative approach, including the use of NGSS standards and technology, enriches hands-on learning and drives student interest. As an author, presenter, mentor, and instructional coach, she inspires educators nationwide, shaping the future of education.
