For two weeks, Mr. Best’s Environmental Science class traded textbooks for waders and took their learning outdoors—straight into Christi Creek. The goal? Test the water and soil, collect samples, and make observations about the environment. But before long, it became clear that “hands-on” really meant feet-in too.

Almost everyone in the class ended up climbing into the chilly 42-degree water to take samples—except for senior Noah Lampman, who had to sit this one out while recovering from a concussion. The rest of the crew—seniors Luke Flickinger, Luke Knoll, Liam Sullivan, Mataya Konopacki, Kenzie Whitney, Brea Johnstone, and Nolan Curtis, along with Selia Lopez—braved the creek armed with tall boots, clipboards, and plenty of laughter.

“I thought the water was going to be disgusting,” said Flickinger. “But it actually wasn’t that bad—cleaner than I expected.” That didn’t stop him from getting soaked, though. “My legs and socks got wet, and I had to change my pants. Luckily, I had an extra pair.”

Between collecting samples and trying to stay upright, there were plenty of memorable moments—like senior Paige Lefere’s near wipeout that got a round of applause from her classmates. The group also spotted fish, frogs, and even a few muskrats swimming through the creek.

By the end of the project, the students had water samples, muddy boots, and a story they won’t forget anytime soon. “It was cold, but fun,” Flickinger said. “You don’t usually get to do science in a creek behind your school.”