Fairfield, CA - In an immersive educational experience, 7th-grade students from Crystal Middle School delved into the world of water treatment and environmental stewardship during a visit to the Fairfield Suisun Sewer District (FSSD). Led by their Science teacher, Lucero Angel, and accompanied by a group of chaperones, students embarked on a two-day excursion filled with activities and community engagement opportunities.
The field trip, organized in collaboration with the Fairfield Suisun Sewer District (FSSD), commenced with a pre-lesson delivered by Stephanie Stock on January 23rd, providing students with an overview of the site's operations and preparing them for the upcoming experience. Split over February 12th and 13th, students were divided into groups, each attending the FSSD on designated days.
During their visit, students were immersed in a series of engaging activities aimed at increasing their understanding of local water resources and the treatment process of sewer water. A highlight of the trip included a comprehensive tour of the FSSD facilities, where students witnessed firsthand the various steps involved in treating sewer water before its release into the marsh.
Additionally, students actively participated in a community engagement meeting, where they learned about repurposing projects underway at the plant. Empowered to contribute to decision-making, students voted on projects they believed would have the greatest impact on local ecosystems and community engagement efforts surrounding the plant.
One of the most impactful aspects of the field trip was the opportunity for students to engage in native plant species restoration by planting native plants. This hands-on activity supported vital pollinators and reinforced the importance of environmental conservation and habitat restoration.
Lucero Angel, a Science teacher at Crystal Middle School, expressed her excitement about the students' engagement in the activities provided by the Fairfield Suisun Sewer District. Reflecting on the experience, Angel shared, "Students enjoyed learning about pollinators and the science behind water treatment processes. This trip provided valuable insights into where our water goes after use and the importance of responsible citizenship in our community."