Livonia High School was filled with sweet success and community connection last night as students led an incredible Maple Expo, highlighting the district’s growing maple sugaring program.

It is the story of 34 kids and their 639.4-hour journey.

Led by Mr. Sheldon and Mrs. Krueger through the district’s Climate Connections program, students took center stage, guiding visitors through interactive stations that explained every step of the maple syrup process. From tree identification and tapping to sap collection, reverse osmosis, bottling, and even data analysis, students truly became the experts.

Another highlight of the evening was the work of Mrs. Krueger’s Data Detectives, who showcased how real-world data is collected, analyzed, and used. Guests explored their climate “tempestries,” where students transform temperature data into colorful visual works of art.

Visitors also had the opportunity to experience the process firsthand by sampling different grades of maple syrup and learning how color and flavor develop throughout the season. At the grading and tasting station, students explained the differences between lighter and darker syrups and how each stage brings its own unique taste.

This program continues to grow each year. What started in 2023 with just 7 taps producing 2.6 gallons of syrup has expanded dramatically. By 2025, students were managing 54 taps and producing 12.7 gallons. This year, the program reached 114 taps and produced an impressive 33.7 gallons of maple syrup from 1,910 gallons of sap.

The Maple Expo, hosted in partnership with the Conesus Lake Association, showcased not only the science behind maple production but also the power of hands-on learning, teamwork, and community collaboration. In total, dozens of students contributed hundreds of hours to this project, demonstrating problem-solving, data stewardship, and a deep connection to the natural world.

From the classroom to the woods to the sugarhouse to the community, this is learning in action.

 Thank you to everyone who attended and supported our students!