Classroom Access to Science Education (CASE) Testimonials

Provided by teachers and students throughout the 2003-2004 and 2004-2005 school years.

“The hands-on learning experiences and game-oriented exercises to reinforce the learning were invaluable. The retention that my students have on all of the various topics is proof that experiential learning works!
My students have extended their learning in the classroom by choosing to do research projects on pine beetles, erosion, glaciers, habitats and tracks. We all returned from this trip excited about school and learning.”
– Nicol Lepke, Teacher, Pagosa Springs Intermediate School

“All field instructors did a super job with the kids. A good mix of games, scientific process, and snow science. I think the research project was great.”
– Debra Mitchell, Teacher, Summit Cove Elementary

“Thank you very much for providing this excellent experience to our class. The location, instructors and food were excellent.
I learned a tremendous amount in a fun way.
The instructors were nice and the programs were entertaining and educational at the same time. Our class is much more interesting and everyone is friends now because of our experience with you. Every meal was excellently prepared and tasted exceptional. Please thank you entire staff for our wonderful week there.”
– Michael Herah, Student, Pagosa Springs Intermediate School

“Nice work staff! I really learned so much with the kids!! Your program keeps getting better and better every year! Keep up the great work!!”
– Julie King, Teacher, Breckenridge Elementary

“We drove down to Keystone expecting to learn and have some fun

But what we didn’t expect was how much we did get done

We learned about plate tectonics and mechanical weathering,

People got the courage to get up and sing

We learned about the web of life and interconnection

And in the end we had SO MUCH FUN

I’m writing to let you know how glad I was to come

And give a big special thank you to everyone”
- Emmi Greer, student, Pagosa Springs Intermediate School

“I hadthe most awesome learning experience of my life
at Keystone Science School. I loved all the hikes, night programs, and field days. I thought that was a really fun way to learn. Also, I thought the team building activities helped our class really become friendly to each other, so now we’re one big group of friends. I could go on and on about how I loved your teaching methods of teaching. Thank you for very much fun.”
- Wesley Vandercook, Pagosa Springs Intermediate School

“The academic program was a perfect complement to our in-school curriculum. The instructors were great – informed, enthusiastic, clear communication, and caring towards kids. Everything was great.”
– Diane Bramble, Teacher, Friends School

“This was the best trip I have been on and I’ve been attending trips for 4 years.” – Parent, Jefferson County School District

“Each time we come it’s better! I am truly impressed with Keystone Science Sschool professionalism and skill/flexibility working with younger gifted children.”
– Ellin Corrigan, Teacher, Logan School for Creative Learning

Excellent programs and activities! I think the students were very receptive to the instructors and the variety of ways that the information was taught. Some of our students were really involved in the town meeting – learning to express themselves without arguing.”
– Janet Baker, Teacher, Horace Mann School

"The 8th grade trip to Keystone Science School is
the highlight of the academic year
for our students and teachers. At Keystone Science School, students grow in many different aspects. The most obvious growth occurs in the area of subject knowledge. During our visit, we have watched our students learn about the geologic timeline, fluvial processes and landforms, as well as plate tectonics. The staff of the Science School uses methods for teaching that causes the information to become deeply rooted into their minds. I expect our experiences at Keystone Science School to improve students’ test scores over time.

I have also been honored to have the chance to watch my students learn what teamwork and service means. We have witnessed my students persevering in difficult problem solving situations. The kids were forced to communicate their own ideas and listen to others all while encouraging and supporting one another. Keystone Science School also teaches service by affording attendees the opportunity to serve one another at meals by looking after tablemates and cleaning up after the meal. Each student contributes to this process without complaining. I was impressed with their growth in duty and servant hood.

Attending Keystone Science School is something that I would like to continue to offer to my classes as a whole. The program at the science school knits them together as learners and members of a community. I am certain that attending the science school offers my students an education and collection of memories that they would not acquire otherwise.

Thanks again for your dedication to serving and teaching our youth. I hope to be able to continue to offer this experience to my students at Lake County Middle School.”
– Kristy Lathrop, Teacher, Lake County Middle School

“I felt the academic portion was both challenging and interesting. I loved how the kids walked away from a project still talking about it.”
– Tasha Allen, Teacher, Dunstan Middle School

“The academic teaching seemed very age-appropriate. Every kid seemed fully engaged at all times.”
– Christina Smith, Teacher, Friends School

“Great job hitting our geology standards! This program has reduced the amount of time I need in class to cover this topic SIGNIFICANTLY!”
– Kate Vlchek, Teacher, Cresthill Middle School

“Coming from a corporate environment, I can really appreciate the focus on team-building, discipline, and structure in addition to the academic program.”
– Nick Szczepanski, Parent chaperone, Cresthill Middle School

“This is a wonderful program with caring, professional instruction and well planned curriculum. Well balanced between academic and fun activities. It was great! Thank you all!”
– Teddy Evans, Parent chaperone, Crested Butte Community School

“You all just keep getting better and better! What I learned from observing and working with my kids at Keystone Science School is invaluable. Everyone is fabulous, helpful. Caring and patient! I admire every one of you.”
- Anne Macomber, Teacher, Compass Montessori

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