Mr. Betta’s fifth-graders are continuing to learn about the vibrant ecosystems in our community through the Creek Connections program from Allegheny College, which equips students to test the water in a local creek. In early February, Holiday Park students obtained another sample of the water from Little Plum Creek and brought it to the classroom to conduct tests on it.

The water is tested with kits provided by Creek Connections that check for attributes such as PH, alkalinity, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity. Mr. Betta provides guidance and supervision to the students, enabling them to grow in their skills. Students record data on the Creek Connections website as they explore the creek's suitability for supporting living organisms.