A regular school day turned into a fun-filled shared experience of learning and community at Banner Island Ballpark on Tuesday during Stockton Ports Education Day.
The annual event welcomed hundreds of students from San Joaquin County and surrounding areas to watch a baseball game while taking part in lessons tied to math, reading and social development.
Educators said the outing offered more than just a break from a routine school day.
“We had the opportunity to come out and enjoy a game, and it works out well because our kids are testing right now,” said Eric Holland of Pittman Charter School in Stockton. “It’s a nice getaway and a reward for them.”
For many students, it was the first time they had attended a live sporting event. Teachers took that opportunity to emphasize the value of exposure to new environments.
“A lot of these students have never been to a game,” Holland said. “This gives them an opportunity they might not otherwise have.”
Connecting learning to real life
Organizers designed Stockton Ports Education Day to connect classroom subjects to real-world settings. Students applied lessons in math through game statistics and field dimensions, while also building social skills by interacting in a public setting.
“It’s a great way for students to enjoy a baseball game and learn about math and reading through it,” said Jordan Feneck, general manager of the Stockton Ports. “They’re having fun, but they’re learning at the same time.”
Teachers said the experience helps reinforce lessons in a more tangible way.
“They talk about things like distance between bases and velocity in class,” said Jamie Saldana of Dwight Elementary in Rio Vista. “Then they come here and see it in action.”
Beyond academics, the event also gave students space to bond with classmates outside the classroom.
“I hope they just have a good time together,” Saldana said. “That connection is important.”
Community groups build relationships with students
The event also brought in community partners, including the Stockton Police Department, which used the opportunity to engage with students in a positive setting.
Community service Officer Priscilla Flores said officers handed out stickers, signed baseballs and answered questions from students throughout the day.
“We’re here to build relationships and show a positive side of what we do,” Flores said. “It’s about trust and making those connections early.”
Flores said those interactions can have long-term impacts, both in shaping perceptions about policing and encouraging future careers.
“Maybe some of these kids will be interested in law enforcement one day,” she said. “But right now, it’s about showing up for them.”
Access and opportunity are key
For many schools, especially those serving lower-income communities, Stockton Ports Education Day provides gives students an experience they may not otherwise have.
“We’re a Title I school, so opportunities like this are important,” Saldana said. “They get to see things outside their normal environment and interact with people they wouldn’t usually meet.”
Feneck said the event reflects the organization’s role beyond baseball.
“We want to be a resource for kids to learn, grow and have a good time,” Feneck said. “Education is important, and this is one way we can support that.”
In addition to the game, students explored the ballpark, visited the team store and participated in activities throughout the day.
Feneck said those moments also help teach everyday skills.
“They’re learning how to make choices, how to manage money and how to move through a new space,” he said. “It all adds up.”
Lasting memories
Educators said the biggest reason for the day is simple: creating lasting memories.
“I think that’s the most important thing,” Holland said. “If they leave here with a great experience and something they can talk about, that’s a win.”
Stockton Ports Education Day will return later this season for a second event, continuing a tradition that blends education, community and baseball in the city.