Lakeshore High School students have been stepping outside the classroom and into the field, engaging in a series of exciting hands-on learning opportunities that bring science and math to life. From the shores of Lake Michigan to the forests and rivers of northern Michigan, these experiences are giving students a chance to apply their knowledge in meaningful, real-world ways.
Recently, Lakeshore Math & Science freshmen embarked on a multi-day learning adventure across northern Michigan. Their first stop was the Platte River Hatchery, where they assisted with salmon stocking and learned about fisheries management and conservation practices. At Sleeping Bear Dunes, math lessons came alive as students measured tree geometry during a hike through the dunes. The trip wrapped up aboard the Inland Seas schooner, where students transformed into field scientists—conducting freshwater research, collecting data, and gaining a deeper appreciation for the Great Lakes ecosystem.
Back at home, Environmental Science classes have been busy with their own field-based investigations. Last week, students spent two days at Grand Mere State Park, where they collected data from both North Lake and Lake Michigan. With samples in hand, students are now back in the lab, analyzing chemical test results and studying microscopic water organisms to determine the trophic states of the lakes and assess their overall health.
Earlier this month, Environmental Science students also took their studies to Hickory Creek. There, they collected aquatic organisms to examine water quality and gathered data to calculate the creek’s discharge. By comparing this information to other local rivers, students are building a comprehensive understanding of the region’s waterways and environmental health.
Lakeshore says these field experiences highlight Lakeshore High School’s commitment to hands-on, inquiry-based learning. Whether hiking dunes, sailing a research vessel, or wading into a creek, students are gaining skills and insights that extend far beyond the classroom—preparing them not just for exams, but for the real-world challenges of tomorrow.LH
