Over the course of four fun days in March, sixth-grade classes at Islip Middle School visited the historic Fire Island Lighthouse on a three-part field trip.

The students experienced the “Forces of Nature” through a brief nature walk, and attended a presentation in the lens building and the boathouses. During the “United States Life Saving Service” lecture and demonstration, they learned a bit of history regarding Fire Island and why the lighthouse, which began operation in 1858, was so useful in years past. Finally, the sixth-graders climbed 181 steps to the top of the lighthouse; on several clearer days, the students were able to see the Manhattan skyline.

“Some of our students have never experienced the climb, and were thrilled with themselves when they did reach the top,” said teacher Laura Rondinella. “Integrating the Fire Island Lighthouse into our science core curriculum was one of those lessons that the children really enjoyed as an experience with a real live outdoor classroom. It’s a great way to learn.”