First grade students at Fulmar Road Elementary School recently took part in an engaging, hands-on learning experience as part of their science unit on animal life cycles, thanks to visits from Mahopac High School senior Cade Freehill and The Zen Hens, his volunteer organization that brings live hens and educational programming into schools and the community.
The multiweek program gave students the opportunity to observe the hatching process up close. Freehill brought fertilized eggs in an incubator to the classroom and returned over several weeks to guide students through each stage of development.
During the second visit, students learned about the process of “candling,” where eggs are held up to a light to observe growth inside. As the embryos developed, students were able to see increased movement and definition, building on what they had learned the week before. Freehill also brought a live chicken during each visit, sparking thoughtful questions and observations from students.
By the third visit, excitement filled the classroom as one chick had hatched overnight. Students discussed the importance of allowing chicks to hatch on their own and learned about features such as the “egg tooth,” which helps chicks break out of their shells. They also explored how chicks behave, noting that they are social animals that respond to one another. Throughout the experience, students demonstrated curiosity, empathy and a strong understanding of the material.
“I was really impressed with how much the students learned throughout the process,” Freehill said. “They asked great questions, showed a lot of care for the chicks and were very thoughtful in their observations. It was great to see how engaged they were each time I visited.”
Superintendent of Schools Frank Miele visited during the final session and praised both the program and the students’ enthusiasm.
“This was an awesome experience for our students,” Miele said. “Cade did an amazing job sharing his knowledge and connecting with the class. I even learned a few things about chicks from the first graders.”
The program, coordinated by first grade teachers Tracy Barrows and Christina D’Amore, provided a meaningful extension of classroom learning, bringing science to life in a memorable and engaging way.
