Students from Summit View West, Culver City, spent the day at Lucky Bee Ranch, where they explored the farm, learned about bees and their role in the environment, and spent time with animals including cows and donkeys. The visit offered a hands-on look at nature, connection, and care in action. 

“Community integration experiences like this are a vital part of our curriculum because they extend learning beyond the classroom and give students meaningful opportunities to engage with the world around them,” said Help Group CEO Dr. Susan Berman. 

The group arrived and received a tour of the farm to start the day. From there, students split into two groups. One group spent time learning about the animals and building connections with them. The other group visited the educational center for a close-up look at a working bee hive. 

At the hive, students saw a beekeeper suit up and learned about the different roles bees play, along with the full process of how honey is made. They asked questions, observed closely, and gained a clearer understanding of how important bees are to the environment. 

Later, everyone came back together for lunch and time outside with Ozzy, the farm dog. Students spent a while throwing sticks and enjoying time together in a relaxed setting. 

The day ended on a sweet note as each student received honey to take home, a simple reminder of everything they experienced. 

“Our students gained so much from their visit to Lucky Bee Ranch.  We are deeply grateful to Jill and Jon Manhan for creating such a warm and memorable experience for our students,” added Dr. Berman.