By Kassandra Robles, Art Teacher, Elsik High School
This spring, our students from Alief ISD’s Elsik High School had the incredible opportunity to visit Smith Oaks Bird Sanctuary with Houston Audubon, a first for us, and hopefully the beginning of something that continues to grow. As an art teacher in one of Houston’s most diverse districts, I know how important it is for students to have access to meaningful, real-world experiences beyond the classroom. This trip gave our students just that: a chance to step out of their daily routines, connect with the natural world, and see things with fresh eyes.
Many of our students had never been on a field trip like this. Being outdoors with binoculars in hand and cameras at the ready was new for them. Some were surprised to spot alligators, turtles, rabbits, and of course, so many birds. They pointed things out to each other, asked thoughtful questions, and leaned into the experience – learning through curiosity and observation.
This year, I introduced digital photography and editing to my students. One of my goals has been to grow our program in that area and give students meaningful ways to apply their skills. This trip gave them that opportunity. They captured moments of stillness and motion, framed the world through their own creative lens, and saw how what we learn in class can come alive outdoors. For me as a teacher, this was one of the highlights of the school year.
Birding has recently become a personal passion of mine. I’m still a beginner, but I love learning, and I love sharing what excites me with my students. I think this trip was a beautiful way to help them explore a new environment, connect with one another, and build a deeper appreciation for the natural world. I’ve even taken some students out to the little bayou near our school to observe birds and take photos. They’re always excited to go, and I want to find more ways to make those kinds of experiences part of our regular learning.
I’m grateful to my students for being curious, engaged, and open to trying something new. I’m also thankful to everyone who helped make this trip possible: Mr. Hackett and Mr. Bailey for chaperoning, keeping the group together, and setting a fun tone; and the Houston Audubon team for coordinating the trip, guiding us with patience and enthusiasm, and helping provide resources like binoculars. Their support meant so much.
Experiences like this show just how powerful outdoor learning can be, not just for teaching content, but for offering calm, perspective, and connection. I hope that with continued support and more time in nature for our students—through photography, poetry, and observation—we can help them build lasting connections with art, their environment, and themselves.
Houston AuduBlog 