Hundreds of young learners at Young School in Saco recently embarked on an unforgettable ocean adventure as "Chunk the Whale," a massive43-foot inflatable humpback whale, arrived at the school. The interactive "Within the Whale" program, sponsored by the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), gave students in Kindergarten through Grade 2 the unique opportunity to step inside the life-sized whale and explore the wonders of marine science in an engaging, hands-on environment.
Led by award-winning, nationally-recognized wildlife educator Jessica Woodend of Within the Whale, the program introduced students to whale anatomy, adaptations, feeding habits, life cycles, and the important role whales play in maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems. By bringing science to life in such a memorable way, the experience helped students connect classroom learning to the natural world around them.
"This was an incredible opportunity for our youngest learners to experience science in a way that sparks curiosity and imagination," said Jeff Mears, principal of Young School. "When children can step inside a whale, ask questions, and interact directly with what they're learning, those lessons stay with them. We are grateful to the Young School PTO for making this enriching experience possible for our students."
The immersive program was carefully designed to align with key Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) concepts taught in elementary classrooms. Throughout the day, students explored how whales meet their basic survival needs, discovered how specialized adaptations such as blubber and baleen help whales thrive in their environment, learned about ocean habitats and the animals that depend on them, and examined food webs, energy flow, and the effects environmental changes can have on marine ecosystems. The larger-than-life whale inspired wonder and excitement while reinforcing key science concepts in an age-appropriate and engaging way.
"One of our main goals as a PTO is to bring unique and enriching experiences to our students that spark curiosity, excitement, and a love of learning," said Kelsey Gallant, president of the Young School PTO. "Seeing the excitement on students’ faces as they explored the whale and learned about marine life was exactly why we do what we do. We are proud to help create opportunities that bring learning to life, inspire discovery, and create lasting memories for our students."
Assistant Superintendent of Saco School Department, Meg Parkhurst, noted that hands-on learning opportunities play an important role in helping young children develop a love of learning. "Programs like 'Whale of a Day' help transform learning from listening and reading into something they can see, touch, and experience. These opportunities encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and engagement while supporting the science curriculum in meaningful ways. We are thankful to all our schools’ PTOs for investing in experiences that enrich learning for our students."
By combining interactive learning with age-appropriate scientific concepts, the program inspires future exploration of science and the natural world, helps students develop a deeper appreciation for marine life, and understand the vital role whales play in maintaining ocean health amidst the interconnectedness of ecosystems.
For more information on joining the Young School PTO, email youngpto.volunteer@gmail.com. For more information on the program, visit https://www.withinthewhale.com/.
