Saint Joseph School Brings Trout to the Classroom—and the Needham Reservoir

The initiative began in late fall, when a specialized trout tank, chiller, and monitoring equipment were delivered to the school, allowing students to raise Brook Trout from eggs to fingerlings right in their classroom. Throughout the winter and early spring, Grade 4 students, led by Math Enrichment Specialist Mrs. Howard, monitored water temperature, recorded chemical levels, and observed the trout’s growth. The experience offered an engaging way to learn about ecology, biology, water quality, and conservation—bringing textbook concepts to life through direct observation and care.

As part of the buddy program, Grade 2 students also joined the learning experience, sharing in the excitement of watching the trout grow and gaining age-appropriate exposure to environmental science.

On a sunny afternoon this April, the program reached its inspiring conclusion: 40 healthy trout were released into the Needham Reservoir by Saint Joe’s students, who had nurtured them for months. The release event, made possible in collaboration with the Needham Conservation Commission, offered students a powerful opportunity to connect their classroom efforts to the local ecosystem.

“This program not only deepened our students’ understanding of science and conservation—it gave them a real sense of responsibility and pride,” said Mrs. Howard. “Watching them release the trout they had raised was truly special.”

Special thanks go to Mrs. Caroline Petrino, a Grade 2 teacher’s aide who played an instrumental role in maintaining the tank during school vacations, ensuring the trout received uninterrupted care.

Saint Joseph School is one of only a small number of Massachusetts schools participating in Trout in the Classroom, and the school community is grateful to all who made this opportunity possible — including the dedicated staff at Mass Wildlife, Greater Boston Trout Unlimited, and the Needham Conservation Commission.

About Saint Joseph School

Saint Joseph School, located in Needham, Massachusetts, is a distinguished traditional Roman Catholic parish school that educates boys and girls from Age 2.9 through Grade 8. Recognized as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education, Saint Joseph School exemplifies excellence in academic achievement and personal growth. The school places a strong emphasis on the core values of Faith, Virtue, Intellect, and Stewardship as the bedrock of its educational philosophy. Its mission is to help every student thrive academically, spiritually, and socially. In partnership with their families, Saint Joseph School is committed to nurturing well-rounded individuals with a deep sense of faith and purpose, providing them with a strong foundation for lifelong success. For more information, visit www.SaintJoes.com.

CONTACT:
 Tori Banu, Director of Marketing and Communications, 781-444-4459, [email protected]