The morning was cool as the students gathered around a small encasement. It wasn't their first time to see this medium size enclosure that appeared a few weeks ago in the library. Sponsored by community member Stacie Stults, the enclosure contained nine little winged friends ready to be released to their migratory duty. What are they?....Danaus Plexippus or Monarch!
Monarch Butterflies are milkweed butterflies that have fascinated culture for generations for their generational migratory journey that takes them thousands of miles across North America. Feeding on the nectar of the milkweed plants, their lifecycle starts with eggs laid on the leaves of the plants. Our students learn how from eggs to butterflies, the life cycle of these insects involves a transformation. Guess what....that is what we got to see!!!
When the enclosure arrived, there was just small green and white caterpillars. Then suddenly they disappeared, only to be found in their new transformation home- a chrysalis! Leaving behind a demolished milkweed plant from their feeding...students watched as they awaited eagerly to see the little creatures emerge! Daily, students could be found sitting and staring, talking about what might be new inside and referencing the books set out on the table next to their home about Monarchs.
Finally it was time! Back to that morning, students surrounded the encasement in our Caldwell garden, another great community project, to set free nine of our new little friends! Studying Dias de la Muertes in their visual and digital arts classes, the student new what these Monarchs meant to the Hispanic culture. The students new they symbolized the souls of loved ones returning for comfort and support. In fact, they have many art pieces that represent these amazing creatures ready for display during our annual Dias de la Muertes campus event.
It was another special time for our Stars to apply their learning and experience a natural event many never witness. Thank you again to Stacie Stults and the Master Gardners of East Texas for donating these wonderful Monarchs. We wish you well on your migration journey!