Lake County Gazette

For one night, students from the Westminster Academy of International Studies exchanged their classrooms for an overnight adventure at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Armed with sleeping bags and a thirst for discovery, the group embarked on a journey that blended science, history, and hands-on learning.

Two parents and three staff members accompanied the sixth-grade class for the night.

The museum’s program gave students a rare opportunity to explore exhibits after hours, engage in interactive activities, and even sleep among the dinosaurs. The group arrived around 5 p.m., and after a memorable night, they ate breakfast together in the museum’s cafeteria.

Among the parents who enjoyed every minute of the adventure was Shiree Abeyta, who accompanied her son Koa. “It was so fun to see them in a different world,” she said. “The things they will say and talk about when they aren’t looking at their cell phones is pretty amazing. ”

Fine arts teacher Drea Grenham admitted she was a little tired the next day but said it was more than worth it. “It is always fun to experience something new through the eyes of my kiddos. They bring a fresh perspective to a place I''ve been to a thousand times, and it''s always gratifying to learn something new alongside them,” she said.