Salmon in the Classroom is a transformative environmental education program that brings the wonder of salmon life cycles directly into Central Kitsap classrooms each spring. Through a multi-organizational partnership including the Suquamish Tribe, who donate salmon eggs, elementary students from over 30 classrooms in the Central Kitsap and Bremerton area become stewards of these remarkable fish from egg to fry. This immersive experience connects students with the natural world while building an understanding of watershed health, salmon conservation, and the role humans play in protecting ecosystems.
As students tend to growing salmon, they witness firsthand the incredible transformation from egg to alevin to fry, gaining insight into the internal and external structures that support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction. This hands-on learning experience culminates in March, when students release their salmon fry into Clear Creek and engage in scientific exploration of salmon habitat and ecology. During their field trip, students explore multiple aspects of salmon ecology through guided activities – from testing water quality and identifying stream insects to understanding habitat needs – before the memorable moment of releasing their salmon fry into the stream.
Building Connections through Field Experience
During their field trips to Clear Creek, students rotate through four interactive stations for in-depth learning about salmon life cycles and their importance to our region.
Salmon Release Station
Students complete their role as “salmon stewards” by carefully releasing their classroom-raised fry into Clear Creek. They learn about the role that habitat plays in salmon survival, about the amazing anadromous life cycle of salmon, and about the Chinook, coho and chum salmon that spawn in Clear Creek.
Water Quality Station
This station teaches students how salmon use their sense of smell to locate their natal stream and how pollution may affect their ability to find the natal stream. Students learn how to test temperature, pH, and other factors that affect salmon survival while exploring how human activities impact water quality.
Stream Bug Station
Students use scientific tools and engage in educational games to discover the fascinating world of benthic macroinvertebrates, learning how these small creatures serve as indicators of stream health and vital food sources for young salmon.
Habitat Station
Through a series of explorations, students learn to identify the essential features of salmon habitat and the importance of ecosystem restoration.
Community-Driven Efforts for Salmon and Ecosystems
The Salmon in the Classroom project was started in 1988 by the Central Kitsap Kiwanis Club. This program is the result of a powerful coalition of organizations working together to achieve a shared vision. Partners include Air Management Solutions, Go-Minis, Great Peninsula Conservancy, Kitsap Conservation District, Kitsap County Stormwater, Kitsap Public Health District, Kiwanis Club of Silverdale, KPUD, Suquamish Tribe’s Merle Hayes Salmon Enhancement Center, WSU Extension Kitsap, WWU College of the Environment, countless dedicated volunteers, and over 30 local classrooms. United by a common goal, this coalition is enhancing the salmon population in Clear Creek and educating students on the vital role of ecosystems in our environment.
Become Part of Salmon in the Classroom
Help train the next generation of salmon enthusiasts! Salmon in the Classroom volunteers are trained on each of the four stations that students rotate through and then assist in leading the program. This is an opportunity to gain valuable outdoor education training and to help students build a lifelong relationship with nature. Volunteers will be trained in outdoor education techniques that meet BEETLES and Next Generation Science Standards. No experience necessary!
2025 Volunteer opportunities are live! Visit our volunteer portal to sign up, or visit our events page to find a time that works for you.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Your support is vital to the success of our mission! Whether you choose to volunteer your time, attend an event, or make a financial contribution, you play a crucial role in fostering a community that values and protects our precious natural landscapes. Your support ensures the success of essential educational initiatives, habitat restoration efforts, and community engagement activities that connect people to nature. Together, we can cultivate a culture of conservation and ensure that the beauty of the Great Peninsula thrives for generations to come. Join us today and be part of the solution!