Learner Engagement Program

LLVS Online Learners had a fantastic day filled with fun, learning, and local flavor. We began at Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, the first commercial pretzel bakery in the U.S., founded in 1861, where we learned that pretzels originated in 610 AD. 

After our tasty tour, we headed to Lititz Springs Park, where learners fed ducks, enjoyed lunch together, and relaxed in the crisp autumn air. We wrapped up the day with a sweet treat — Greco’s homemade ice cream — the perfect finish to a memorable adventure!

Students recently visited Franklin & Marshall College for an exciting day of exploration and learning. Welcomed by friendly staff, they toured the scenic campus, explored residential buildings, and got a firsthand look at college life. The visit offered valuable insights into the college’s history, academic programs, and student opportunities.

Our visit to the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania was a memorable experience for our learners. Students explored wooded paths and observed over 50 rescued wolves and wolf dogs in a serene, natural setting. Through a guided tour, they learned about wolf behavior, biology, and conservation efforts, including how pack dynamics influence feeding and territory marking. The sanctuary’s mission to protect wolves unable to survive in the wild sparked meaningful conversations and curiosity among our students, highlighting the importance of wildlife preservation.

LLVS learners enjoyed an unforgettable experience with WGAL meteorologist Ryan Argenti, who shared thrilling tornado-chasing adventures, jaw-dropping weather photos, and expert insights into forecasting.  He also gave an inside look at WGAL, sharing background information about the station and what goes into producing a weather broadcast.  Learners got hands-on with science by making their own Tornado in a Bottle, while Ryan captivated them with a demonstration on how to create a cloud in a jar.

This fall, our online learning community came together to celebrate the magic of apples with a vibrant and hands-on Apple Festival! Students explored the apple life cycle, tasted different apple varieties, decorated apple pops with creative toppings, and planted apple seeds in decorated pots. Each child also took home a seed kit with soil and instructions to continue the planting experience at home. The event blended science, creativity, and hands-on learning.