We are a Transitional Kindergarten (TK) classroom in the Oakland Unified School District serving 24 joyful, curious students ages 4–5 at a Title I school. Our classroom is full of wonder, questions, and a deep love of learning, especially when that learning connects to real-life experiences.

During our recent Pets study, students voted to adopt a classroom pet. After researching gerbils, geckos, and fish, the class enthusiastically chose fish! This decision sparked an incredible learning journey. Our study has grown into an in-depth exploration of caring for fish (specifically fancy goldfish) and understanding their needs.

Believe it or not, our TK students are now confidently using words like ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, nitrogen cycle, comet goldfish, and yes… “poop” (because science is fun!). Through hands-on learning, they are discovering how water cycles, why clean water matters, and how living things depend on healthy environments.

Their interest and engagement have guided the direction of our learning. We’ve even transformed our dramatic play area into an aquarium, complete with student-created money so they can “buy tickets” and role-play visiting an exhibit. These meaningful, playful connections help make complex concepts accessible and exciting for young learners.

Now, we would love to take this learning one step further by giving our students a real aquarium experience with a field trip to the Aquarium of the Bay in San Francisco. Seeing marine life up close will deepen their understanding of fish, habitats, and how to care for the waters right here in our own Bay.

To make this experience possible, we need to charter a bus for 24 students and 9 adults. The funds raised will directly support transportation for this field trip and provide an unforgettable, educational experience that brings classroom learning to life.

Thank you for supporting our students, their curiosity, and their love of learning. Your generosity will help them see that science, nature, and their community are all connected, and that their learning truly matters.