LA CROSSE, Wis., (October 14, 2024) – Hamilton Elementary students recently took their learning outside the classroom, embarking on an exciting hiking adventure through Hixon Forest. The outing, made possible by a generous Gold Star Grant from the La Crosse Public Education Foundation, offered students the chance to connect with nature, build new skills, and discover the beauty of their community.
For teacher Jenn Speckeen, who organized and led the hike, this experience was about more than just a walk in the woods. It was the realization of a long-held dream to give her students opportunities they might not otherwise have.
“My dream is to have all of our students experience hiking the beautiful trails that we have available to us in our community,” Speckeen said. “There is so much to explore that our students have not had the ability to discover. I want them to see the beauty around them and understand how nature can support their well-being.”
This fall, students explored the trails at Hixon Forest, a local gem known for its diverse ecosystem. They discovered the wonders of the forest firsthand. For many, it was their first time experiencing such an adventure. But the benefits of hiking trips go beyond just physical activity and exploring nature. Outdoor experiences support students’ mental health, especially in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world.
“With mental health being such a concern for students, I want to show them how nature can help,” she said. “Fresh air and exercise can make such a difference in how they feel, both physically and mentally. These hikes offer a moment to slow down, breathe, and simply be present in the moment.”
Hamilton Elementary has big goals for these outdoor excursions. Speckeen hopes to make hiking a regular part of the school year, offering trips in both the fall and spring. Her ultimate dream is that by the time a student leaves Hamilton in 5th grade, they will have experienced twelve quality nature hikes, building a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors.
“We’re continually striving to find new ways to connect with our students,” Speckeen added. “These hikes introduce them to parts of our community they wouldn’t otherwise get to experience, while also helping them grow their leadership skills as older students mentor younger ones.”
The La Crosse Public Education Foundation’s Gold Star Grant has been crucial in making this vision a reality.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the La Crosse Public Education Foundation for funding these trips,” said Speckeen. “Their generosity has opened the door to so many new experiences for our students, and we can’t wait to see how these outdoor adventures shape their futures.”
This fall’s hiking adventure is just the beginning. Speckeen and the staff at Hamilton Elementary are already dreaming of expanding the program with a winter hike to give students a year-round connection to the outdoors.
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