Nurturing Curiosity One Habitat at a Time

Step into Gaby Martinez’s PreK classroom at St. Vincent Catholic School in Elkhart, Indiana, and you’ll instantly enter a world where wonder leads the way and curiosity blooms in every corner. It’s a joyful place where future scientists and creative problem-solvers aren’t just learning—they’re growing together through exploration and discovery.

As part of the “Growing Together” GLC Unit, Ms. Martinez launched a mission of creativity, care and connection! In the hands-on Nurturing Needs lab lesson, her students stepped into the role of habitat engineers, equipped with animal figurines, big imaginations, and compassionate hearts ready to protect and provide. 

After learning about the basic needs of living things—food, water, and shelter —each student carefully chose their animal figurine.  They gathered materials and sprang into action designing the ultimate habitat for survival. Making sure their animal had fresh water, food, comfy shelters, and even fenced in spaces for farm animals...because no one wants a runaway pig!!

“My pig needs a fence so it doesn’t run away… and a pillow!”

Spoken like a true scientist - who also happens to be four or five years old!

Through this playful yet powerful experience, the students showed a deep understanding of what animals need to live and thrive—food, water, shelter, and protection—and made meaningful connections to how people need those same things too. 

Ms. Martinez brings the GLC curriculum to life with joy and purpose, creating a classroom where science is hands-on and students feel empowered to explore the world around them. Her dedication to sets the foundation for lifelong curiosity, and we’re so proud to shine a spotlight on her incredible work!

Way to go, Mrs. Martinez! You’re growing hearts, minds, and a lifelong love for learning!