(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – May 7, 2025) — Students at Zach White Elementary can now proudly call themselves bat experts. The young learners recently took part in a unique hands-on STEM experience that combined environmental awareness, creativity, and career exploration — all centered around protecting one of nature’s most misunderstood creatures.
On April 22, a group of students from the classes of Mrs. Juana Garcia and Mrs. Elvira Richard participated in the Career Connect Spotlight: LEGO Build the Change project, a national initiative hosted by Discovery Education and the LEGO Group. The students joined the event via Zoom, where they presented original LEGO designs aimed at protecting and supporting the bat population in their local community.
Using what they learned about bat habitats and behaviors, students created innovative structures to help bats thrive. One group designed a garden-like shelter built with LEGO bricks, while others crafted models that integrated natural elements bats need to survive. During their presentations, students explained the reasoning behind their designs, showcasing both their research and creativity.
MORE PHOTOS: Bat Conservation Project with Discovery Education and Lego
“We were so proud of how our students applied their knowledge in such a meaningful way,” said Garcia. “They really understood the importance of bats in the ecosystem and thought critically about how to help.”
After presenting to a panel of bat experts from Discovery Education, the students had the opportunity to engage in a Q&A session, asking thoughtful questions and deepening their understanding of the animals they worked so hard to support.
The LEGO Build the Change project encourages young learners to think like engineers and conservationists, giving them a platform to explore real-world challenges and imagine creative solutions. For the students at Zach White Elementary, the experience was not only educational—it was inspiring.