VASJ’s Academic Scholars group recently went to the Holden Arboretum.
“One of my main goals in organizing these field trips is to explore some of the great resources we have here in the Cleveland area and to expose students to new experiences and academic fields,” says VASJ science teacher and group moderator Mrs. Lucy Kulbago.
The fact that the Holden Arboretum offers guided hikes was something that appealed to Kulbago.
“I thought they would learn more about local geology and plant life with a guide,” Kulbago says.
The group hiked the Stebbins Gulch creek hike and learned about rock formation and geologic history while hiking in and along the creek.
“The Stebbins Gulch guided tour is a wonderful hike where you can see four different geologic time periods in one stretch of a hike,” Kulbago says. Students explored the areas along the hike route, uncovered salamanders, and examined different rock formations.
The group also walked along the canopy walk, which is a suspension walkway up in the tree tops, and climbed the emergent tower which provides a stunning view of Geauga County from above the treetops.
“We all had a great time on this hike,” Kulbago says. “We recommend it for anyone that is up for an adventure.”
The Academic Scholars group is comprised of students that maintain a minimum 3.8 GPA, take many honors classes, and are interested in pursuing their academic interests in a variety of fields. The field trips are one part of this program which aims to provide additional academic enrichment for these academically talented students.