Third graders at Forest Lake Elementary School learned how to take responsibility for their own safety and also look out for the safety of others during a field trip in late March. The youngsters went to the Nassau County Police Department’s Safety Town at Eisenhower Park, which has been an educational hub for generations of elementary students. 

During the trip, Forest Lake students got to drive small cars, ride bicycles and walk as pedestrians, with each experience imparting valuable safety lessons. Although they may be several years away from driving, they certainly can use those bike riding and pedestrian safety tips immediately.

This was the third year that Forest Lake students have gone to safety town. Teacher Stacey Sandurs had her students write reflection pieces upon returning to the classroom. She explained that it was a way to reinforce lessons from the trip and would also be something tangible to keep as a memory of the trip. 

Their three-paragraph stories began with basic facts such as when and where they went, who they went with and why they visited Safety Town. Students also explained what they did and what they learned, and wrapped up their stories with their favorite moments.

Ms. Sandurs added that the pieces helped students work on literacy skills such as writing structure, spelling and grammar, and get better at keyboarding.