Nature's Classroom
Each year the 6th grade students go on a weeklong field trip to Nature’s Classroom. During this week the students are involved in many “hands on” learning experiences. They get to choose from a wide variety of classes, which are run by the Nature’s Classroom staff. Some of these classes include; shark dissection, hot air balloons, grossology, candle making, bat caves, Oregon Trail, old fashioned movie making, the human body and survival skills. In addition to the classes, students also participate in several field group activities. Some of these include; hikes, ropes activities, rock climbing and many other fun experiences. The students are also engaged in several large group workshops, including; a predator vs. prey game, a simulated Underground Railroad activity, quie sing, and a science fair.
At Nature’s Classroom, even meal times include opportunities for learning. During all meals, students learn about conservation, table manners and personal responsibility. They are responsible for serving all of the meals “family style” as well as cleaning up after each one. The leftover food or “ORT” is even weighed after each meal so that they students are aware of how much food they waste. The idea is that students will learn to reduce this waste by learning to only take what they think that they will eat. Finally, the students spend quality time with both each other and their teachers during transition and cabin times. During transitions, the teachers supervise the students as they play on the gigantic slide, climbing wall, farm, basketball court, and tetherball court. Students can also fish on and explore the beautiful “chapel island” area. Overall, Nature’s classroom leaves the students more mature, self confident and happy. It is an experience which they will never forget.
