Our Story. Our Growth. Our Impact. is a web series highlighting the rich history of Grand Rapids Public Schools.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- GRPS is known today for its innovative approach to offering school choices. Some may be surprised to learn that this commitment has been around longer than most of us.
Take a look at these second graders from Aberdeen School. The year is 1938 and these students of Miss Mary Crume are participating in a John Ball Zoo-sponsored project where they learn to raise and care for rabbits. The students were invited to the Zoo prior to the project's start to see how the keepers fed and managed their charges. The rabbits were then housed in the classroom where their young caretakers took charge. The children raised money to purchase a second brood of rabbits, and each was allowed to take one to care of at home.
The rabbits became stars over time, making it to class for show-and-tell sessions. The program had multiple benefits. The children gained appreciation for their furry friends and renewed respect for all animals. They took on new responsibilities. And they shared work. Their parents benefited, too. In an era when cod liver oil was considered a staple for youngsters, the kids learned it was essential to rabbit health as well. Consequently, several parents reported their youngsters in the program put up less fuss about their spoonful of oil.
Today GRPS continues to offer a healthy approach to learning, including 18 theme school choices.
Article by GF Korreck
Source: The Grand Rapids Press, December 5, 1938, Page 14
Image: The Grand Rapids Press
