Second graders at Hamilton Heights Elementary School dove into nature-based learning with “Nature Dan,” exploring tree bark, seeds, and leaves as part of their Reaching New Heights project-based unit on patterns in nature. (Photos provided by Hamilton Heights School Corporation)
Posted By: The Reporter November 21, 2025
Submitted by Hamilton Heights School Corporation
Hamilton Heights Elementary second graders recently welcomed Dan Popelia – known to many as “Nature Dan” – from Cool Creek Park for an interactive, hands-on program all about trees.
Students explored tree bark, seeds, leaves, and native Indiana specimens, even creating their own leaf rubbings to deepen their understanding of natural patterns.
“This program was specially designed around our Unit 2 reading project-based learning week,” second-grade teacher Chelsea Kleyla said. “For five weeks, our English Language Arts instruction focused on the essential question: ‘What patterns do you see in nature?’”
The visit served as a launchpad for deeper inquiry. Students spent the rest of the week researching tree facts, creating informational sheets, and sharing their learning through presentations to Kindergarten classes and digital reflections on Seesaw. The experience exemplifies the spirit of Reaching New Heights, Hamilton Heights’ new initiative to connect academic learning with real-world exploration, student voice, and community partnerships.
Photo provided by Hamilton Heights School Corporation
