Denton, Texas — On March 5, 2025, second graders at Denton’s Newton Rayzor Elementary experienced an innovative learning opportunity brought by Texas Woman’s University (TWU) faculty and students. The initiative, called ‘Water Ninjas,’ involved an interactive lesson focusing on the water cycle and water conservation.
The presentation was led by Alana Taylor from TWU’s Chemistry and Biochemistry division, alongside student volunteers from environmental science, professional education, aeronautical sciences, and nursing programs. A volunteer from the Tarrant Regional Water District (TRWD) also contributed, emphasizing the program’s connection to regional water management efforts.
‘Water Ninjas’ is designed to teach young students about Denton’s urban water cycle, helping them understand the path of water from clouds to faucets in their homes. The program underlines the importance of water conservation and the need to maintain water quality in urban settings. By illustrating the journey of rainwater, the initiative aims to cultivate environmental awareness among children.
A unique part of the program involved an engaging obstacle course. Designed to simulate the urban water cycle, students began their journey as raindrops, jumping on a trampoline to mimic falling from the sky. They navigated a sequence of obstacles like scooters, blue ribbons, and balance beams representing storm drains and creeks, eventually reaching Lake Lewisville’s representation. From there, the children ‘traveled’ through pipelines and hula hoops to simulate water treatment and purifying processes, ending up in a mock residential setting to practice everyday water uses.
The involvement of TRWD was notable, as they provided the supplies for the interactive course. The TWU volunteers ensured the lessons were accessible, offering instruction in both English and Spanish.
Alana Taylor expressed her satisfaction with the event, highlighting its success in making learning both fun and impactful for the second graders. ‘It was a fantastic day,’ Taylor shared. ‘The second graders had a blast, and our TWU volunteers did an incredible job making learning exciting and impactful.’
By introducing engaging educational models such as ‘Water Ninjas,’ TWU continues to foster a spirit of community involvement and environmental responsibility among the youngest residents of Denton.