LAWRENCE - There are more new approaches to education popping up in schools across Indiana. In Lawrence, elementary schools across the township have been transformed.
Tally Shanley usually guides students to the room that's lined with dozens of boots, shovels, gloves and materials they use every day. It's in the courtyard where you'll find some instructional tools more suited for the farm.
"Our chickens are very friendly," said Shanley, noting the birds who came wandering over. "They come to us because they think we're going to feed them."
It's all at once a lesson in agriculture, biology and how food gets to the table.
"We have some of the best eggs in town," she said.
This is the Oaklandon Magnet School of Environmental Studies in Lawrence Township, where rabbits hop through the classroom, turtles hang out in the hallway, and a gecko perches on the principal's shoulder.
"I think mainly the thing that they will learn is just a love of nature and it's a good way for them to make that connection, to make learning fun," said Shanley.
"We like our school because we go on fun field trips and we learn more about nature and stuff," said Kyah Wright, second grader.
What's going on at Oaklandon magnet school is a reflection of what's going on throughout the entire district. As of last year all of the elementary schools have a specialized focus.
Lawrence Township is using $12 million in federal grant money to improve student achievement, and provide choice for families. There's more technology in the classroom, and at Oaklandon, there are mountain bikes for students to ride and canoe lessons, an approach that deals with something they call nature deficit disorder.
"That just means our kids aren't out in nature enough like they used to be when we were kids. Our kids are so plugged in now, that this gives them an opportunity to want to go outside more," said Shanley.
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