Carver’s After the Bell students at Naramake Elementary School set off on another adventure of scientific discovery this week, guided once again by the endlessly creative and dedicated volunteer Erika Smith. Fresh off her recent lesson on the art of beekeeping—where she introduced students to the vital world of pollinators—Erika returned to Naramake to lead students into the life and legacy of one of the most influential scientists of our time: Dame Jane Goodall.

Naramake, a school deeply committed to providing students with a 21st-century learning experience and proud to be an IB Primary Years Program candidate school, offered the perfect environment for this rich STEAM exploration. Erika’s lesson wove together science, history, and hands-on nature study to show students that discovery can begin with simple curiosity—just as it did for Goodall.

Students learned about Goodall’s remarkable journey from a young girl fascinated by animals to a world-renowned primatologist whose 60 years of research in Tanzania transformed our understanding of chimpanzees. Erika highlighted Goodall’s groundbreaking findings—such as chimpanzees using tools and exhibiting complex social behaviors—and how these discoveries reshaped what the world thought it knew about animal intelligence.

To honor Goodall’s lifelong habit of close observation, Erika brought students outside and into nature for a series of “mini expeditions” inspired by the ways Goodall herself learned to see the world:

Bird watching, where students used keen observation to identify movement, color, and sound
Leaf study, examining textures and patterns to understand how scientists classify plant life
Seashell exploration, uncovering natural stories hidden in shapes, ridges, and worn edges

These simple but powerful activities helped students practice the same skills that fueled Goodall’s decades of discovery: patience, curiosity, and the willingness to look deeper.

The lesson concluded with a proud moment—each student received an Explorer Badge, symbolizing their achievement and their place in a long line of scientists, naturalists, and protectors of the environment.

Carver is grateful for volunteers like Erika Smith, whose passion for the natural world inspires students to imagine themselves as future scientists, caretakers of the planet, and lifelong learners. From bees to birds to seashells, Erika continues to show Carver students that wonder is everywhere—and every question is the beginning of an adventure.

Get Involved!

Carver’s programs thrive because of volunteers like Erica, who bring knowledge, passion, and creativity to our students. If you’d like to make a difference by sharing your skills, time, or enthusiasm, we’d love to hear from you.