Fifth grade students at Howbert Elementary School, a D11 Outdoor Education school, are turning classroom learning into real-world impact through a partnership with Colorado Trout Unlimited and its Trout in the Classroom (TIC) program.

This hands-on environmental education program allows students to raise trout from eggs to fry while learning about ecosystems, conservation, and water stewardship. Since late October 2025, Howbert students, led by teacher Mrs. Green, have cared for their trout, building responsibility, scientific understanding, and a connection to the natural world.

The experience culminated in a meaningful release event, where students released the trout into Fountain Creek, bringing their months of learning full circle in a real-world outdoor setting.