Life on land in Chautauqua County comes alive when seen through the eyes of our youngest community members—whether exploring local tourist attractions, experiencing community events, or discovering the wonders of our ecosystem in action. Their fresh perspective reminds us to appreciate, protect, and celebrate the beauty and resources around us every day.

CHQ Kids Care is proud to honor our local history and heroes as CLCS students recently worked with  Burl Swanson and the Dewittville Cemetery to unveil the new Patriot Burials plaque recognizing Revolutionary War heroes Seely Scofield, Uriah Scofield, and Samuel Young. Through a meaningful dedication ceremony and veteran flag placing, students helped preserve the stories of those who served while learning the true meaning of Memorial Day. This special event brought together students, veterans, families, and community members to reflect on sacrifice, service, and remembrance. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the dedicated volunteers and community partners who helped make this powerful experience possible for our students and community. 

CHQ Kids Care is excited to introduce a new segment called “Bring People to Chautauqua,” an initiative started by students at Westfield Academy to showcase why Chautauqua County is such a special place to visit. Their first feature partnered with Full Strength Coffee in Westfield and highlighted the story of Abraham Lincoln and Grace Bedell, even imagining Abe thanking Grace for the famous statue in the center of town. Through creativity, storytelling, and community pride, students are helping promote local businesses and historical landmarks in a meaningful way. The project encourages other schools across CHQ to create their own videos celebrating the unique places and people in their communities. This inspiring idea earned students the Creativity and Innovation Award at STEM Wars! Keep those videos coming CHQ! Send us your business highlight to be featured here. 

This spring, CHQ Kids Care explored the tradition of maple sugaring, showing how the forests in our area provide both natural resources and valuable learning opportunities. Students from Chautauqua Lake and Maple Grove, learned how caring for life on land helps preserve traditions, protect habitats, and inspires future environmental stewards. Click on the image to view the video showing the full process from tapping maple trees to collecting sap and creating syrup while learning how healthy forests support wildlife, clean water, and local economies. 

Mrs. Frudd’s first grade class is growing more than just romaine lettuce, they are growing future environmental leaders! As part of their study on sustainability, plant growth, and nutrition, students are carefully measuring plant growth, testing water quality, and collecting data each day. Through hands-on learning, they are discovering how caring for the land helps support healthy communities and a healthier planet.