For one unforgettable night, students from the Westminster Academy of International Studies swapped their classrooms for an overnight adventure at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Armed with sleeping bags and a thirst for discovery, the group embarked on a special adventure that blended science, history, and hands-on learning.

Two parents and three staff members accompanied the sixth-grade class for the night.

The museum’s program gave students a rare opportunity to explore exhibits after hours, engage in interactive activities, and even sleep among the dinosaurs. The group arrived around 5 p.m., and after a night to remember, they ate breakfast together in the museum’s cafeteria. 

Among the parents who loved every minute of the adventure was Shiree Abeyta who went with her son Koa. “It was so fun to see them in a different world,” she said. “The things they will say and talk about when they aren’t looking at their cell phones is pretty amazing."  

Among her favorite pictures is one with Koa, Edgar and a Koala. 

Fine arts teacher Drea Grenham admits she was a little tired the next day, but says it was more than worth it. “It is always fun to experience something new through the eyes of my kiddos. They bring a fresh perspective to a place I've been to a thousand times, and it's always gratifying to learn something new alongside them,” she said.