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Stewardship Spotlight: Schools of Salmon and Students in the Pacific Northwest, Part 2
Student posters pose questions about the salmon life cycle at Gilbert Heights Elementary School in Portland, Oregon.
Read part 1 of this two-part salmon series here.
School Bright Spot: A Challenge Met
Michelle Tursi first connected with NWF as a participating Eco-Schools U.S. Salmon Stewards teacher from Oliver Elementary School in 2021-22. Now, as the Title 1 Reading Specialist at Butler Creek Elementary in Gresham, Oregon, she supports 4th grade students and teachers in Fish Eggs to Fry.
As such, Michelle applied for and was awarded a $2,000 grant from The Americas Green Hour School Challenge. NWF is the proud conservation partner for NBC’s The Americas, a 10-part epic nature documentary series that premiered earlier this year and is now streaming on Peacock. The series celebrates the wildlife and landscapes of North and South America. Together we created an opportunity to make environmental education more accessible in every classroom nation-wide.
At Butler Elementary, the grant award will engage 4th graders in place-based science projects through Fish Eggs to Fry that build students’ understanding of native fish species and the importance of protecting aquatic habitats. The funds will also provide hands-on experiences for students to participate in outdoor field trips to watch salmon spawn in their natural environment and visit local hatcheries and sites such as Bonneville Dam. What’s more, Butler Elementary can now purchase additional learning materials like life cycle models, salmon books, and art materials to help enhance teaching.
“Thanks to The Americas grant, we can continue inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards, helping students feel pride in their community and a sense of responsibility for protecting its natural resources. It means the world to me and the hundreds of elementary students in Gresham who will benefit from it.” shares Michelle Tursi.
Learn more about Michelle’s experience being a Salmon Stewards educator through the Q&A below.
What do you want other people to know about the benefits of salmon and watershed education?
“In my teaching experience, science education has continued to fall by the wayside in public schools with math and reading dominating instruction time. As a reading specialist, it’s hard to change that trajectory, but as a Salmon Steward with the National Wildlife Federation, I’ve found my path to advocate and enhance science instruction within my abilities.
With the new Tribal History lessons for 4th graders, I’ve been able to partner with this grade for the salmon release since the salmon life cycle is part of their curriculum. It’s been so rewarding to keep science instruction alive and connect K-5th students to the beautiful ecosystem that’s in their backyard. Many students call me the salmon teacher now because they associate me with the salmon eggs and salmon lessons and I love that!”
How meaningful is Fish Eggs to Fry for your school and students?
“The Fish Eggs to Fry program is more than just a science lesson—it’s a meaningful experience that helps children witness the magic of life cycles, environmental stewardship, and the delicate balance of ecosystems. Watching salmon eggs hatch and grow right before their very eyes gives students a tangible connection to Oregon’s native species and waterways. It’s powerful to see their excitement and curiosity turn into care and concern for the environment.
This program also opens students’ eyes to the natural beauty that surrounds them every day—often in places they may have overlooked. Whether it’s learning about salmon migration, stream health, or the importance of clean water, kids begin to understand that they are part of a much larger, living system. And by releasing the juvenile salmon into local rivers and creeks, they become active participants in that system.”
What’s it like having a living laboratory (aquarium) at school?
“Setting up the tank is more than just the tank itself. I want this experience to be consumed by all students, Kindergarten through 5th grade, and really impact as many senses as possible. Prior to the egg delivery, I do a presentation to each class to get them excited for the egg delivery, but also to have an understanding of why salmon are considered a keystone species.
We review the salmon life cycle and then once the eggs start growing, I update the salmon life cycle on the bulletin board so students can actively watch their transformation and know what stage they are at. We had a few students so excited that there were some hands placed in the tank so I created a barrier to prevent kids from getting too close.”
Why is the fish release field trip so memorable?
“Each year, our 4th graders embark on an unforgettable field trip to release Chinook salmon fry into the Sandy River, marking the grand finale of our “Fish Eggs to Fry” program.
The day is filled with excitement and learning as students rotate through stations: a nature walk exploring the salmon’s ecosystem, a lively salmon release ceremony complete with a song, and a hands-on Tribal History lesson about the cultural significance of salmon.
After releasing the tiny fry into the river, the kids reflect on their experience while warming up with hot chocolate. It’s a joyous celebration of nature, science, and stewardship, where students gain a deeper connection to the environment and the important role they play in preserving it.”
What is one of your favorite fish lessons?
“One of my favorite extension activities is Fish Prints. Students get to learn about the anatomy of the salmon as well as the ancient Japanese tradition of fish printing called Gyotaku. They use silicone salmon molds and get to paint their salmon however they would like. Each one is so unique and beautiful!”
When children develop a personal relationship with wildlife, it can spark a lifelong commitment to stewardship. Salmon Stewards educators help meet the challenge of ensuring youth become the next generation of salmon caretakers. By engaging in place-based environmental education and spending green hours outdoors, students have one-of-a-kind experiences they will remember for a lifetime. With teachers like Michelle, kids (and salmon) are in good hands and inspire us all to make a difference.
For more information about the Eco-Schools U.S. program, check out the 2024-25 Impact Report and dive into our School Resources.
Explore a salmon’s journey in the Columbia River system through the eyes of Little Larry and his series of adventures!
Watch The Americas, The Americas is now streaming on Peacock. Get inspired to spend time outside in nature, discovering the wonders of wildlife and wild places.
