GENTRY, AR — Students at Gentry Primary School had the opportunity to turn classroom learning into real-world experiences during the school’s annual “Barnyard Buddies” event today.
The event brought a variety of animals to campus, including donkeys, goats, lambs, rabbits, fish, and reptiles, giving students the chance to interact with them up close. For many of the school’s youngest learners, it was a memorable and exciting day filled with discovery.
“It was an incredible experience for our students,” said Gentry Primary Principal Andrea Folger. “They were able to take what they had been learning in the classroom and connect it to real-life experiences in a way that made the learning truly meaningful.”
Leading up to the event, students spent time researching the animals they would encounter, studying topics such as diet, habitats, sleep patterns, and life cycles. They also worked collaboratively to create classroom posters showcasing what they had learned.
“The level of engagement we saw from students was outstanding,” Folger said. “Watching them make those connections between their research and the animals they interacted with was really special.”
In addition to meeting the animals, students participated in other hands-on activities that introduced elements of farm life. They learned how to make butter (including some taste tests) and explored how a tractor works, further enhancing the educational experience.
The event was made possible in part by Gentry High School FFA students, who volunteered their time to share their knowledge and passion for agriculture. Community members also contributed by providing animals and support for the event.
“We are so grateful to our high school students and community partners who helped make this day possible,” Folger said. “Opportunities like this create lasting memories and help spark a lifelong love of learning in our students.”
Folger said events like Barnyard Buddies continues to be a highlight of the year, blending education and experience in a way that leaves a lasting impact on students. She said the school plans to expand the event next year in collaboration with the agriculture education program at the high school.