Calhoun County ISD students explored science beyond the classroom during a two-day visit to the Formosa-Tejano Wetlands, where hands-on learning brought environmental concepts to life.

On March 10 and March 11, 2026, about 200 fifth-grade students from Port Lavaca, Port O’Connor and Seadrift participated in outdoor education sessions at the Calhoun County ISD Outdoor Education Facility, located on the wetlands property.

Each group spent two hours at the wetlands, rotating through four 30-minute lessons focused on environmental science and ecosystem awareness. Students examined freshwater organisms, observed birds using binoculars and explored how environmental changes affect local ecosystems. Students engaged directly with the environment, getting an up-close look at the organisms and ecosystems that support life in the wetlands.

The wetlands provide habitat for a variety of species, including birds, reptiles, insects and native plants, supporting hands-on learning in a real-world setting.

The outdoor education facility is designed to reinforce classroom instruction through direct interaction with nature. According to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, students who participate in outdoor education programs often achieve higher scores on standardized tests and show stronger engagement with science concepts.

Curtis Short, manager at Formosa’s Agriculture and Ecology Research Center, partnered with CCISD, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, the Lavaca-Navidad River Authority and Texas Master Naturalists to lead the program.

Supporting Student Learning

Programs like this help bring learning to life for students. By supporting hands-on science initiatives, Formosa Plastics Corporation, U.S.A. helps expand environmental awareness and strengthen local education.

Supporting initiatives such as the Formosa-Tejano Wetlands program reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, education and community engagement.

This story includes information from reporting by the Victoria Advocate. To learn more about Formosa Plastics Corporation, U.S.A.’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement, explore related stories below.  

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