Spot Box Project - Kodiak Island Borough

DEED Spotlight on Kodiak Island Borough School District

The Kodiak Island Borough School District (KIBSD) introduced a new initiative this month, the Spot Box Project. The Spot Boxes were created to promote science and physical health activities over the summer.

The Spot Boxes are placed in outdoor locations around Kodiak and are themed based on their location. The first two Tide Pool Spot Boxes are located at Mill Bay Beach and Near Island in Kodiak. The two boxes are intended to be used by families while tide pooling and are full of resources and activities relating to the local tide pools. Users will find tide charts, tide pool bingo, tide pool scavenger hunts, rock life check lists, and nets and cups for observing tide pool creatures.

New this week, KIBSD introduced the Kodiak Birds and Plants Spot Box! The new Spot Box focuses on birds and plants around Old Woman Mountain and the South End Trail of Near Island. Families can play Bird BINGO, have a checkoff list for summer birding, and learn about the "Wings Over Alaska" birding program. Kodiak plant activities include a plant scavenger hunt, plant checklist, and materials to make leaf impressions. Plant ID and fact cards have been placed on the trail to help locate and learn about the indigenous plants.

The newest Rocket Spot Box is located at the Pacific Spaceport Complex and focuses on launching rockets and STEM activities. Inside, users will find materials and instructions for constructing a straw rocket. The new rocket engineers can then conduct trial launches and use an augmented reality app to watch a rocket launch.

KIBSD Superintendent Larry LeDoux hopes the Spot Boxes encourage families to get outside, stay active, and keep learning during the summer months. Watch the KIBSD Facebook page for new Spot Box announcements!

Thank you, KIBSD, for creating fun science activities so Kodiak families can learn more about the nature and science in their hometown!