Oct 1, 2026
When weather or scheduling changes disrupted planned outdoor activities for Decatur County 5th and 6th graders today, the outdoor experience came directly to them.
Naturalist Scott Kent from Clarke County Conservation made the trip across county lines, bringing a traveling menagerie of live reptiles straight into the school gymnasium for an interactive, memorable science lesson.
Science Comes Alive in the Gym
During the presentation, students were introduced to three distinct reptiles: a ball python, a corn snake, and a desert tortoise. As Scott guided the session, students learned key concepts surrounding animal habitats, biological adaptations, responsible wildlife care, and the broader importance of conservation.
The visit featured several standout moments:
- A Familiar Rescue: The ball python carried a special local connection—it was rescued just last week at Grade Lake Park in Osceola after being spotted by two inquisitive fifth graders.
- A Lifelong Journey: Students observed a corn snake that the conservation center has nurtured and raised from the time it was roughly the size of an earthworm.
- An Inquisitive Guest: The desert tortoise settled in quickly, freely exploring the gym floor and sauntering over to inspect passing middle school students.
Continuing the Curiosity
The visit left a strong impression on the 5th and 6th grade classes, sparking dozens of thoughtful questions from enthusiastic students. To keep the learning going, Scott gifted the classes with the corn snake’s recently shed skin, which teachers will integrate into upcoming biology and life science lessons.
To express their gratitude, students are spending time this week drafting personal thank-you letters to Scott Kent for taking time out of his schedule and traveling to Decatur County.
Special thanks to Scott Kent and the Clarke County Conservation team for their flexibility, dedication to community outreach, and commitment to bringing science to life for our students!