![First Grade Dives Into Southwest Florida’s Ecosystem]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1787670116/xmiezq86dwjpfux5fufr/8-25-2026MsBarnesFirstGradeVisitsTorpeyTouchTank-54.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1787670116/xmiezq86dwjpfux5fufr/8-25-2026MsBarnesFirstGradeVisitsTorpeyTouchTank-54.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1787670116/xmiezq86dwjpfux5fufr/8-25-2026MsBarnesFirstGradeVisitsTorpeyTouchTank-54.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1787670116/xmiezq86dwjpfux5fufr/8-25-2026MsBarnesFirstGradeVisitsTorpeyTouchTank-54.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1787670116/xmiezq86dwjpfux5fufr/8-25-2026MsBarnesFirstGradeVisitsTorpeyTouchTank-54.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1787670116/xmiezq86dwjpfux5fufr/8-25-2026MsBarnesFirstGradeVisitsTorpeyTouchTank-54.jpg","width":2200}])
Ms. Barnes’ first grade class recently visited the Torpey Touch Tank with Mr. Summit for an engaging, hands-on learning experience focused on the Southwest Florida ecosystem.
The animals featured in the touch tank are local to the ecosystem around us, giving students the opportunity to see and learn about marine life they may encounter in their own community. As they explored the touch tank, students observed the animals up close and discovered more about the unique creatures that call Southwest Florida home.
The experience brought learning to life as students connected their classroom lessons with the natural world right outside their doors. Through hands-on exploration, curiosity, and plenty of questions, our first graders had a fun opportunity to become young scientists and discover more about their local environment.