WEST ORANGE, NJ - During the doldrums of winter, there have been signs of spring at Hazel Elementary School, where the annual hatchling project brought joy to all.

Kindergarten and Grade Two students received duckling eggs to hatch, and Grade Four received chick eggs.

According to Fourth Grade Science teacher Rosemary Pepi-Martos, "Quiver Farm in Pennsylvania came and set up the eggs on Feb. 11. The kids were fully engaged and excited. The project corresponds with our Life Cycle Units across grade levels."

Quiver Farm delivered the eggs, and provided all necessary equipment and training for a successful project. The Hazel Elementary School PTA funded the endeavor.

"Fun fact: we 'candled' the eggs, and we were able to see the feathers, eye, and overall shape. Some even saw movement and heartbeats! " added Pepi-Martos.

The ducklings hatched on Feb. 17 and the chicks hatched on Feb. 19. Quiver Farm returned on Feb. 20 to collect the new arrivals and equipment. When the ducklings hatched, one of them was in distress. Thanks to the quick action of school counselor Flo "Duck Whisperer" Chirichiello, little Chester was revived and is now thriving. He will return with his siblings to Quiver Farm.

"It was a wonderful experience for our students to experience caring and the life cycle of an animal. It not only fosters empathy, it brings joy and happiness," enthused Pepi-Martos, "and it's great for social-emotional learning."

"We are thrilled to see our Hazel Eagles engaging in such a hands-on learning experience with the hatching of chicks and ducklings in their classrooms," said Principal Joel Castillo.

"It's a wonderful opportunity for our students to observe the miracle of life and learn about biology in a real-world setting. These kinds of experiences foster curiosity, responsibility, and a sense of wonder that we hope will inspire them long after the chicks and ducklings have hatched."