SAWMILL INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL

Burr and Sawmill students returned to Marion Carll Farm on Tuesday to see the fruits of their spring labor.

The students, who planted pumpkin seeds as third graders last school year, witnessed the fruits’ growth into full-grown pumpkins during Tuesday’s visit.

The students — now fourth graders — rotated among stations, which required performing scientific techniques such as measuring the circumference of the grown pumpkins, weighing the fruit and observing other physical properties, including texture and smell.

A working farm owned by the district, the students even got an up-close look at the cows, which are maintained by Long Island University’s veterinary program.

Under superintendent Dr. Jordan Cox, who attended Tuesday’s visit, Commack Schools has emphasized experiential learning as well as the importance of introducing students of all ages to the dynamics of a working farm.

Investments in the farm include the construction of an outdoor classroom area.