Art and science is coming alive for Palm Springs Unified first graders who are having the opportunity to explore, play and create at the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert in Rancho Mirage.
Learning about art and science at Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert.
Through a partnership between the District and the Museum, which was piloted last year at Della S. Lindley Elementary, first graders from five District elementary schools have visited or will visit the Museum during this school year. During the educational field trips, students have the opportunity to learn about desert animals, ride trikes and create an art project during an integrated science and art lesson on desert animals and their adaptations and habitats. While at the venue, students also have the opportunity for additional indoor and outdoor learn and play experiences. Earlier this month, three Della S. Lindley classes had their turn.
“It is a true joy to see young students so engaged and enthused about learning,” said PSUSD Arts Coordinator Louisa Castrodale. “Enrichment programs in the arts are a vital part of our overall educational mission, and providing students the opportunity to visit the Museum on a field trip is a valuable and memorable day for them.”
Learning about art and science at Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert.
This year, first grade students from Della Lindley, Rancho Mirage, Agua Caliente, Vista del Monte and Bella Vista Elementary Schools have or will visit the museum with more schools to be added next year.
“The District plans to have the program in place for all 16 of our elementary sites within the next few years,” Castrodale said.
The Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert is celebrating its 30th year of operation and has plans to expand and develop even more exhibits and traveling exhibitions in coming years. It is a hub for science-based activities, and family friendly events, especially geared towards toddlers and young children. With more than 80 “hands-on” exhibits in two galleries, the CDMOD’s mission is to inspire and promote intellectual curiosity and self-expression through interactive programs and exhibits and encourage children to learn about themselves and the world around the by exploring the natural environmental of the community.
More information about the museum and its programs can be found at www.cdmod.org or by calling 760-321-0602. It is located at 71701 Gerald Ford Drive in Rancho Mirage.
