Detroit Country Day School Sixth Graders Learn About Global Water Issues Through Walk For Water Project

Access to fresh water is one of the most important aspects of daily life, and one that is hard to come by for more than a billion people around the world. As part of the Water Walk for Geography project, sixth grade students at Detroit Country Day School experienced first-hand how difficult and time-consuming it can be to collect and carry water by taking turns transporting gallons of water around the Shilling Fieldhouse.

“Access to clean water is not something that can be ignored. It impacts the ability to learn, live and prosper,” said Jennifer Caylen, sixth grade geography teacher at DCDS. “Our students were incredibly humbled by the Water Walk project. They complained about soreness in their arms, legs, hands, and feet, but all mentioned that this is only a small fraction of what people go through every day in Africa. Students were upset and saddened that people—mostly young girls and women—have to spend time collecting water that is not always safe to drink.”

The Water Walk for Geography lesson included both the African Caravan Water simulation and a larger discussion encouraging students to think critically about how difficult daily tasks can affect health, access to education and good jobs and even survival in other countries. Students considered how to use their water supply if it had to last their family for a week, what to do if they thought the water was contaminated, and compare their own experiences and opportunities to the experience of students in Africa.

This is the second year of the Middle School’s Water Walk project, which took on even greater significance for local students in the midst of the current Flint water crisis, and encouraged students to gain empathy and understanding for those without access to clean water. Along with academics, arts and athletics, character development is an integral part of the DCDS curriculum.