Daniel Sponaugle goes to Nairobi, Kenya

By Lizzy Tsuang
Circulation Editor

Science teacher Daniel Sponaugle treks through the world of biology, whether in Costa’s classrooms or on African safaris.

To Sponaugle, international exploration and the basics of biology work hand-in-hand. He leaves May 21 for a two-week family trip to Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, where he hopes to connect classroom ideas to the real world.

“This trip has always been a part of my bucket list,” Sponaugle said. “I am looking forward to my first-ever visit to Africa. It is finally time to experience what I teach in the classroom.”
In Nairobi and Kenya, Sponaugle will spend his time hiking on the safaris, exploring the scenery and observing wildlife.

“I am excited to actually observe animals in their natural habitat,” Sponaugle said. “I am looking forward to seeing the birds and insects the most. I have experience with them, having done some insect collecting with my students here at Costa.”

For Sponaugle, biology has been a life-long passion. Having taught Advanced Placement biology at Costa for over 30 years, he is familiar with different animals he may encounter and hopes to use his knowledge on the trip.

“My science background will come in handy because I have loved to study animals all my life,” Sponaugle said. “I have seen many nature programs and videos and been to many zoos.”

Sponaugle hopes to learn about the realities of poaching, or illegally killing endangered animals. Upon returning, he hopes to raise awareness at Costa.

“I hope to take plenty of pictures and understand the effects of poaching on the large game animals such as elephants and black rhinos,” Sponaugle said. “I’d like to find out how Costa can help support the wildlife.”

On the trip, Sponaugle will encounter challenges that he hopes to integrate into his curriculum. He anticipates it will be a learning experience that allows him to create further connections between his class and the real world.

“What is exciting is that even though we have things planned, I like surprises, even challenges,” Sponaugle said. “I hope to reveal how different yet the same that Africa, its people and its wildlife are to us.”