Though schools in Montana are small, their learning has a big impact. Following are some samples of unique educational experiences, two of which are written by students.
TCAS Keeps Water Clean
On Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023, my class from Trout Creek Adventist School went to the Cabinet Gorge Kokanee Hatchery. Some students in my class read a book called Come Back Salmon by Molly Cone. The field trip was a way for our class to learn about our local fish and what we can do to keep the fish in our rivers and lakes.
Jeff Dillon taught us many things about the life cycle of the fish and its anatomy. My whole class enjoyed watching the fish leap and flop for the food. There are 6.1 million eggs at the hatchery, plus all the fish in different stages. To keep the fish population healthy, it's important to keep garbage, chemicals and invasive species out of our water.
Dillon emphasized that fertilizers used for lawns, especially those next to the rivers, can be very harmful to the fish population. Fertilizer puts out way too much nitrogen in the river and causes dangerous algae blooms. Everyone learned so many things, and we will pay more attention now to keeping the waters clean.
Trout Creek Adventist School students look at the fish being bred at the hatchery.
Trout Creek Adventist School students pose outside Cabinet Gorge Kokanee Hatchery.
TCAS Prepares for Emergencies
In a proactive move towards ensuring the safety and well-being of its community, TCAS is pleased to share that seven learners and two teachers have successfully become certified in CPR and first aid.
The initiative, part of a practical health and safety class, took place at the Ambulance Barn in Thompson Falls. The instructor, Cara Eberly, has worked as an EMT for seven years. She shared many interesting stories and emphasized the need to learn first aid and CPR.
The participants engaged in hands-on learning, acquiring essential skills to respond effectively to emergencies. The comprehensive training covered a range of critical techniques, including applying tourniquets, proper wound stuffing and operating Automated External Defibrillators. Moreover, the participants were trained in the life-saving technique of CPR.
The certification program not only equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to act swiftly in emergencies but also fosters a sense of preparedness within the school community. The Ambulance Barn in Thompson Falls provided an ideal setting for the practical training, ensuring a realistic and immersive learning experience.
They were reminded that in an emergency, it would take responders at least 25 minutes to get to the student's home or the school. This is what makes taking a class like this so crucial in their rural area.
TCAS remains dedicated to holistic education, recognizing that preparing students and educators for unexpected situations is an integral part of their overall development. The certification not only enhances the safety net within the school but also contributes to building a community that values and prioritizes the well-being of its members.
Trout Creek Adventist School students learn how to perform CPR and work towards certification.
Christmas Store at FFCS
Dec. 12, 2023 was an exciting day at Five Falls Christian School. Students brought their money, eager to shop at the Christmas store. This year, Raylene Franklin, home and school leader, proposed having a Christmas store where students could buy gifts for their families at inexpensive prices.
Most of the items were donated, and parent volunteers staffed the store. When the store opened, students eagerly and carefully shopped for gifts. After they purchased their gifts, they proudly wrapped them, ready to take home for Christmas. The students loved the store so much that it looks like it will become a yearly tradition at FFCS.
Five Falls Christian School students wrap their purchased gifts for family members.
Five Falls Christian School students load up gifts for family and friends.
