Red Fox Community School Concludes Yearlong Animal Study with School Play: “Extirpated, Not Forgotten: Three Amazing Tales”

MANCHESTER CENTER, VT – Red Fox Community School (RFCS) will hold their fourth annual all-school play on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at 5:30pm at the school’s outdoor theater.

“Extirpated, Not Forgotten: Three Amazing Tales” is an informative and imaginative play written and performed by Red Fox Community School students. This production is the culmination of a year-long exploration of the animal kingdom, which began with studying classification and attributes, then progressed to evolution, adaptations, and habitats.

The creative process was led by graduating “Eagles” class members representing three iconic Vermont species: Wild Turkey, Moose, and Beaver. Students discovered these animals share a significant connection – all were once extirpated from Vermont due to habitat loss and other human impacts.

“Through research, creativity and imaginative thinking, students wrote fictional tales that connected their learning of traditional origin stories with their scientific knowledge of animal habitats and ecosystems,” explains Karen O’Neill Thomson, Head of School. “Working in collaborative groups, students explored the challenges that faced and continue to impact these important Vermont species.”

Throughout the year-long focus on animals, students had opportunities to learn about creatures that have a unique relationship to Vermont. Field trips to local organizations enhanced their understanding, including visits to Smokey House, Monty’s House Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Manchester Community Library, North Meadow Farm, Hildene, Merck Forest, VINS, GNAT, and Hike Dorset.

Students used their scientific knowledge and creative writing skills to develop origin stories focusing on habitat loss. Incorporating elements like talking animals and settings in the distant past, students mapped out their scenes while teachers provided guidance when needed. The scripts went through multiple drafts to ensure every student could play a character they connected with on stage.

The final phase involved creating sets and costumes, with students memorizing lines and using their creativity to bring characters to life. As audiences watch the performance, they’ll hear the “chick-a-dee-dee-de” chime that signals interesting scientific facts throughout the show.

“This production represents our school’s integrated approach to education, where students connect scientific learning with creative expression in a meaningful way that highlights important environmental issues facing Vermont wildlife,” said Thomson.

About Red Fox Community School:

Red Fox Community School (RFCS) is an independent progressive K-5 elementary school in Manchester Center, VT. RFCS educates students through shared authentic experiences, emphasizing the learning process and building meaningful connections with the outside world. For more information, please visit redfoxschool.org.