This story was originally posted on April 24, 2025
Curiosity is growing in first-grade classrooms across EMS ISD, and not just among students. Small incubators, humming quietly in the background, are sparking big lessons about science, nature and life itself, one egg at a time.
For this program, EMS ISD was named the recipient of the 2024 Darlene Myatt Friend of Children Award, presented by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. The award recognizes individuals and organizations who make a lasting impact on the lives of youth in Tarrant County through education and leadership.
EMS ISD was honored for its ongoing commitment to the Hatching in the Classroom program, an engaging, hands-on learning experience that has quickly become a beloved tradition across the district.
“Hatching in the Classroom brings science to life,” said Monica Padilla, EMS ISD Curriculum Coordinator for Elementary Science. “It’s exciting to see how students light up with wonder and curiosity as they witness the process unfold in real time.”
Now in its fourth year, the initiative has reached more than 5,500 students and nearly 100 teachers districtwide. Thanks to a strong partnership between the district and its elementary science leadership, incubators are placed in first-grade classrooms across all EMS ISD elementary schools. Students observe the full life cycle of a chick, from egg to hatchling, and explore scientific concepts in a way that’s both meaningful and memorable.
This year’s program is currently underway. As the hatching period approaches, EMS ISD will share a live camera feed so families and the community can watch the
excitement alongside students.
The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service commended EMS ISD for creating dynamic, engaging learning experiences that go beyond the classroom. The district’s dedication to innovative education exemplifies the spirit of the Darlene Myatt Friend of Children Award, and ensures her legacy continues to grow, one little chick at a time.
Named in honor of longtime Extension Agent Darlene Myatt, the Friend of Children Award celebrates those who carry on her legacy of youth nutrition education and service. Myatt spent nearly 40 years serving the Tarrant County community through the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), and was recognized with numerous accolades, including the Texas A&M University System Regents Fellow Service Award.
