On Friday, September 12, 2025, 585 second graders from Culpeper County Public Schools once again embarked on a journey back in time, walking where dinosaurs roamed more than 215 million years ago. Thanks to a continued collaboration between Luck Stone Quarry, The Museum of Culpeper, and Culpeper County Public Schools, students from all six elementary schools were given the rare opportunity to explore one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaur tracks right in their own community.
High school students from Eastern View High School’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) played a key role in the day’s success, guiding the younger students on tours of the quarry. Trained by The Museum of Culpeper, these high school volunteers brought science to life by leading engaging discussions about animal life cycles and habits, connecting the experience directly to the second-grade Virginia Standards of Learning. One of the highlights for students was the chance to make rubbings of the fossilized tracks, taking home a tangible piece of history.
Renee Wootten, CCPS Instructional Specialist for Math and Science, emphasized the educational value of the trip: “Seeing dinosaur tracks is a unique opportunity here in Culpeper, providing a wonderful occasion for high school students and second graders to share an educational experience. The efforts of Luck Stone Quarry and the Museum of Culpeper are greatly appreciated in making this happen.”
Teachers and students alike were equally enthusiastic. Julia Addy, a second-grade teacher at Sycamore Park Elementary, noted how much her class enjoyed the experience: “The second graders at Sycamore Park loved the Dinowalk field trip at Luck Stone!” She explained that each child had a different favorite moment. Ensey Sharp marveled, “I loved the dinosaur prints. They were so big!” while Gabby Atkinson shared, “My favorite thing was that we got to see where a baby dinosaur laid down.” Bryson Racey was impressed too, adding, “I liked seeing where the mama dinosaur laid down!”
Students at A.G. Richardson Elementary also came away inspired. “It was cool — I wished we could have stayed longer!” said Karmyn McPeak. Jaxon Brown agreed, adding, “I love it! I liked laying down inside the dinosaur belly fossil.”
The Luck Stone Quarry, an active worksite, is world-renowned for its extensive collection of prehistoric tracks. Each year, the quarry partners with The Museum of Culpeper to open its doors for this special field trip, offering Culpeper County’s second graders a rare opportunity to step into history. The experience blends local heritage, science education, and the thrill of discovery.
Culpeper County Public Schools extends its gratitude to Luck Stone Quarry, The Museum of Culpeper, and the many community volunteers who made this extraordinary day possible for students.
For more information about the Luck Stone Quarry and its dinosaur tracks, please visit this link.
