Vernal, by 2nd grader, Ryan Road School, Florence, MA On a guided nature walk in the Sawmill Hills forest near their school in Florence, MA, second graders learned to collect and record sensory observations. Back in the classroom they shared their field notes and sketches, composed poems and painted pictures. View the presentation (10 slides) integrating photographs, watercolor paintings and poetry: Vernal Pool Art & Poetry Presentation  For lesson plan, handouts and student work samples, click here: Vernal Pool Poetry. At the vernal pool  I see a blue spotted salamander  I hear loud birds  I smell fresh air fresh green leaves  I feel smushy moss  I see scaly pillbugs  I see some leafy plants  I see some bugs crawling  I see some water moving  At the vernal pool.  by Hannah, Grade 2, Ryan Road School, Florence, MA

Bridging Communities: How Does the River Connect Us? Visit the online exhibit of poetry and artwork celebrating a yearlong project connecting two river communities. Purchase the notecard collection of ten 4x5" full-color paintings and poems highlighting children's creative perspectives on their Connecticut River towns from the CRC Shop.   "[The project] enriched our students and strengthened our communities.  The poetry was heartfelt and reflected the differences in our towns.  The artwork was student-centered and exquisite. Together, they depicted such a raw view of our community telling a story that only students can tell."