Annual tree tapping at Vista View sparks curiosity and wonder in students

One of the most favorite days of the year, the annual tree tapping at Vista View Elementary School provides hands-on learning that teaches kindergarteners about maple trees and how to tap the tree for sap to make maple syrup. 

Before going outside to tap the tree, students had the opportunity to hear from District 191 American Indian Education leaders Madison McKinney and Marlene Bad Warrior. After a discussion about the historical and cultural significance of wild rice, students sampled a cup of wild rice mixed with blueberries and syrup (made from the maple tree's sap)!

Students had mixed reactions while tasting the wild rice, which is actually an aquatic grass and not a true rice. The rice came from Minnesota's White Earth Reservation. 

Tucci and students will check on and empty the bucket of sap daily for about three weeks or until the tree's buds flower.

Sparking curiosity and wonder in each student’ is the driving force behind Pathways at the elementary level in District 191. It's about allowing students to discover a world of possibilities through rich learning experiences or "Spark Experiences." Opportunities for this type of interaction are found throughout the school day at schools across the district.

These experience are also made possible with support from the community. Thank you to parent volunteers Brian Burthay and Danae Ruble, Indigenous leaders Madison McKinney and Marlene Bad Warrior, and City of Burnsville Police Officers Nick Nelson and Brent Murray for volunteering their time in the classroom.