Insects don’t bug Washougal 1st-graders

Washougal — First graders at Gause Elementary became bug experts for the day when they participated in an “Insect Showcase” on Feb. 12.

The students, part of Marvina Bugajski’s class, spent the day sharing what they had learned about bugs with their parents, classmates and others from the community.

The students completed their research using books and spent a lot of time learning to find information online. The final project for the showcase was presented as both a poster, which they completed at school, and a diorama they created with the help of family at home.

Parents were impressed with the kids’ knowledge and enthusiasm about the project. Kristie Williams, whose daughter Sawyer is in the class, said, “I took her to the store, but she knew what she needed, like trees and grass, because that is where the insect lives.

Her dad helped cut the dowels used for trees and hung the butterflies, and sister even donated the box. It was fun to work on together.” Bugajski echoed that sentiment. “The students get so excited about the insects and love to share it with their family,” she said. “They really take ownership of the project and then love to tell people what they learned.”