First-grade students at Norwood Avenue Elementary School in the Comsewogue School District learned firsthand about snakes, chickens and other animals during a special visit from the Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown.

“This visit helped students make real-world connections to what they've been learning in the classroom,” said Norwood Avenue Elementary School Principal Nichole Makarius. “Seeing the animals up close sparked curiosity and conversation that we know will last long after the lesson ends.”
The interactive presentation brought reptiles and other live animals directly into the classroom, giving students a hands-on opportunity to deepen their understanding of animal habitats—an exciting extension of their science curriculum.

From slithering snakes to clucking chickens, the visiting creatures helped bring the first-grade habitats unit to life. Students learned about each animal’s unique environment, diet, and adaptations, making for an engaging and educational experience that tied directly to classroom learning.

The visit from Sweetbriar Nature Center was designed to foster environmental awareness and appreciation for wildlife, aligning perfectly with Comsewogue’s mission to inspire lifelong learning through exploration and discovery.