Smyrna Elementary School’s Pre-K students welcomed a very special guest on September 17 when representatives from the Outer Banks Wildlife Shelter (OWLS) in Newport visited the school with Archie the Owl.

During the presentation, students learned about owls, their unique characteristics, and the important role they play in our local ecosystem. Meeting Archie gave the children an exciting, up-close opportunity to observe one of North Carolina’s native birds and connect their classroom learning with the natural world around them.

Students also learned about the mission of OWLS, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured and orphaned native wildlife. The shelter provides care for thousands of animals from communities across Eastern North Carolina while educating the public about wildlife conservation and responsible interaction with wild animals.

The visit encouraged curiosity, compassion, and respect for nature among our youngest learners. Smyrna Elementary extends its sincere appreciation to the Outer Banks Wildlife Shelter and its dedicated staff for bringing this memorable educational experience to our Pre-K students.

To learn more about OWLS and its work, visit the Outer Banks Wildlife Shelter website.