Students at North Elementary School in Iron Mountain had an exciting and educational experience Thursday as they learned how to make fresh apple cider with the help of Rebecca Krans from the Michigan State University Extension. Krans walked students through the entire process, from preparing the apples to pressing them, and explained how apple cider has been made for generations. Students not only learned about cider-making but also rolled up their sleeves and took part in the process themselves. The highlight of the day came when students got to sample the cider they had worked together to create, a sweet reward for their effort and teamwork. Experiences like these provide hands-on learning that connects students to agriculture, local resources and traditions that are still alive today. School officials offered a huge thank you to Krans for providing the opportunity and helping students make memories — and cider! — they won’t forget.