New Guy - chickens in a suburban-area classroom setting

[jcraven]

I teach agriscience in a suburban environment near Kansas City, MO. I am very interested in getting my students some fun hands-on experiences and exhibiting opportunities and think that chickens may be a good fit. I grew up in a small rural community on a row crop farm and have taught ag for 14 years. My wife and I have 2 sons -- ages 4 and 6. I'd like for both of them to also have the opportunity to raise and show chickens in 4H and FFA. This will be my first experience in poultry production.

I am really limited on space at my school. My big question (and it may be a dumb one): Is there any way possible to raise a few bantams in a classroom setting? Too dirty/smelly/noisy?

Any suggestions and ideas are greatly and sincerely appreciated.

 

[cterbizan]

from GA I hope you find your answer

 

[MrsStephan]

I taught Biology and we had all kinds of critters. What you would need is a good TA. The cage would have to be cleaned daily. Then what I did with larger critters is have my TA take them outside to forage for a period. On bookwork days I would consider letting them stroll the classroom. I think the students would love them! You might also have to take them home in a cat carrier for weekends and holidays, so you would need somewhere at home to keep them. otherwise the classroom may be a little ripe when you get back. ( I had mice, snakes, a rabbit and a giant tortoise, but as I am getting to know chickens better I would have enjoyed one in the room.

 

[jcraven]

Thanks for all the helpful information!
Would bantam Orpingtons, Plymouth Rocks, Australorps or Wyandottes be too big? How many would you suggest (2)?
What kind of "Coop" setup would you recommend? Would an indoor rabbit hutch w/wood chip-lined dropping tray work?

 

[MrsStephan]

You would also need to check with your area's regulations for keeping chickens.(But there seem to be all kinds of special permits for teachers) Also check with your administrator.
Personally I would have kept just one in the classroom and may be a partner at home. The chicken would have more room and depend on students for its flock. The cage would have to be tall enough for a roost with a bottom easy to clean out. I haven't checked out the plans on the site here, but there may be something you can use.
I have a bantam cochin that is the sweetest little ball of fluff and I hear that they are quieter than some of the other breeds.
I hope it works out. I have had chickens for over a year now and I prefer them to rabbits or guinea pigs.