What does science look like in an elementary classroom today?

In this episode of Learning in Lake Oswego, we explore how hands-on science experiences are helping elementary students develop curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence as learners. Science instruction has evolved in many ways since many of us were in school. Today’s classrooms emphasize inquiry, experimentation, and discovery, encouraging students to ask questions, test ideas, and learn through doing.

Special guests include Kelly Hutchison, an elementary teacher, and Quin Campbell, one of her students. Also joining the show is Brian Toye, the district’s science coordinator, who works closely with teachers across LOSD to support hands-on science learning, providing everything from worms and fish to batteries, circuits, and building materials that bring science concepts to life.

Together, they discuss what hands-on science looks like in our elementary schools, why experiential learning matters, and how these early opportunities help students begin to see themselves as scientists.

Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD

Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD

Kelly Hutchison, Teacher, River Grove Elementary School

Quin Campbell, Student, River Grove Elementary School

Brian Toye, Science Coordinator, LOSD

To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.

Hands-On Science: Curiosity and Discovery in Elementary Classrooms