Quebec Students Abuzz with Beekeeping Project Led by Passionate Science Teachers
In the heart of Quebec's Eastern Townships, a unique educational initiative at Knowlton Academy is creating quite a buzz. Science teachers Matthew Quesnelle and Heidi Neil have introduced their students to the fascinating world of beekeeping, transforming the school's science curriculum and fostering a hands-on learning experience that emphasizes environmental stewardship.
A Vision Takes Flight
The project began last fall when Quesnelle and Neil applied for a grant from the Whole Kids Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting student health and well-being through nutrition. With the grant secured, they set up a beehive this spring, engaging students of all ages in caring for it. Quesnelle, an amateur beekeeper himself, saw this as an opportunity to teach students about the critical role bees play in pollination and food production.
"I wanted students to understand that the majority of our food has to be pollinated by bees," Quesnelle, known as Mr. Q to his students, explained. His personal experience with beekeeping has been instrumental in ensuring the program's success.
Engaging Students in Hands-On Learning
From the junior kindergarten class to seventh graders, students have been actively involved in the project. Quesnelle’s calm and organized approach has helped even the youngest children interact safely with the bees. A special window installed in the side of the hive allows students to observe the bees' activities up close, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of these vital pollinators.
"Bees are quite interesting. I like them a lot. And I'm not too scared of them," said seventh-grader Anton Zeitlinger Fontana. For fifth-grader Isabella Funderburg, the bees are like the class pet she never had, offering a fascinating glimpse into their complex world.
Overcoming Challenges with Community Support
Initially, the school board was hesitant to have a beehive on school grounds. However, the project found a home thanks to the generosity of the local community. Retired teacher Jan Ryzora connected Quesnelle with the Cranker family, who offered a part of their yard for the hives, just a short walk from the school.
The hive boxes themselves were a community effort, assembled by Camlen, a local furniture company, and decorated by students through a bee-themed design contest.
Sustaining the Project
With the school year ending, Quesnelle will maintain the hive over the summer. Plans are already in place for the students to continue their beekeeping activities in the fall, including a fundraiser featuring garlic from the school garden and honey from the hive. Though the initial honey harvest may be supplemented by Quesnelle’s personal hives, he expects the school’s hive production to increase over time.
A Model for Environmental Education
The Knowlton Academy beekeeping project is more than just a science experiment; it is a testament to the power of hands-on learning and community involvement in environmental education. By teaching students about the importance of bees and the principles of sustainable beekeeping, Quesnelle and Neil are cultivating a generation of environmentally conscious individuals.
As these students care for their hives, they not only learn about the natural world but also develop a sense of responsibility and pride in their work. The project stands as an inspiring example of how education can extend beyond the classroom, fostering real-world skills and a deeper connection to the environment.
