Monterrey Christian School believes education goes beyond the classroom. We bring learning to life by connecting what students study in books to the real world of God’s creation. That’s why we were so excited to send our fourth-grade students on a fantastic field trip to the Río Loro Environmental Project in Cartago. This special day was a perfect example of our commitment to a christian values-based education.
During the visit, our students dove into the area’s rich biodiversity. They explored lush trails, discovering local plant and animal species, and learned the importance of protecting our natural resources. This experience not only deepened their academic knowledge but also their love and respect for the environment—a core value we nurture at MCS. The beauty of places like Río Loro powerfully reminds us of God’s magnificent artistry, reinforcing the biblical principle of being good stewards of the Earth.
The Journey to Discovery
The day began with a comfortable bus ride to the beautiful province of Cartago. As we neared our destination, the landscape changed from urban scenery to dense, green forests, building anticipation. Upon arrival at the Río Loro Environmental Project, expert guides greeted our young explorers. These guides, passionate about conservation, immediately captured the students’ attention with fascinating facts about the local ecosystem.
One of the trip’s highlights was the butterfly garden. Our students were amazed to see the intricate life cycle of these delicate creatures up close. They learned about the different stages—from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly—and understood how each stage plays a vital role in nature. The butterflies’ vibrant colors and gentle flight were a tangible representation of new life and transformation, themes we often discuss in our Christian-based curriculum.
Lessons in Stewardship and Conservation
A major part of the trip was a guided tour through the reserve’s protected forest. Here, students learned about native trees and why preserving them is crucial for a healthy ecosystem. They were shown how a single tree can provide a home for countless living things and how the forest floor filters rainwater, which feeds the Río Loro stream. This hands-on lesson about water conservation was especially impactful, showing them how interconnected all parts of nature truly are.
- Students learned about the water cycle and the role forests play in ensuring clean water for communities.
- They were taught to identify different native species of birds and insects. The park is home to about 140 species of birds, including the bright-colored motmot and the trogon.
- The guides also stressed the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling—practical habits our students can apply at home and at school.
This outdoor classroom gave them a powerful, real-world context for the scientific principles they’ve been learning. It also reinforced our school’s mission to teach students to care for the world God created. By instilling these values at a young age, we are helping to raise a generation of responsible citizens who will be a positive influence in their communities.
Cultivating a Love for God’s Creation
By providing opportunities like this field trip, we aim to cultivate a deep sense of gratitude and responsibility in our students. We want them to understand that they are part of something much bigger and that their actions have a direct impact on the world. This aligns perfectly with our holistic approach, which nurtures students spiritually, academically, socially, and physically.
The memories and lessons from the Río Loro field trip will stay with our students long after they return to the classroom. They have a renewed appreciation for nature and a greater understanding of their role as environmental stewards. Our teachers will continue to build on this experience, incorporating these real-world examples into lessons on biology, ecology, and even social studies.
If you are a Christian family in Costa Rica searching for a school that combines a rigorous bilingual curriculum with strong Christian values, we invite you to explore Monterrey Christian School. We are dedicated to partnering with parents to raise children who are not only academically excellent but also compassionate, responsible, and rooted in their faith.
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