Chinquapin trees are endangered. Students, teachers and parents work together to construct/use a 50’ x 50’ garden labyrinth in the school’s 15-acre outdoor classroom. It features a one-mile path to the center and a chinquapin oak tree. Borders will be native shrubs with larger stones.
Approximately 78% of students attending our rural public school in Arkansas get free/reduced lunches.
Test scores show that these students are above the national averages in science.
These students want to make a difference in our world.
By building a nature labyrinth leading to an endangered Chinquapin tree and fountain, these students will increase awareness and improve the health of all students in grades preK-12 on our campus and the general public. The STUDENTS have researched both chinquapin trees (native to our area) and labyrinths and set this project as their goal. They also communicate with students in another country on issues relating to the environment via ePals. Civic organizations such as Master Gardeners and Rotary Club will aid students in construction of the Chinquapin Garden Labyrinth. The students also have joined the Chinquapin Foundation and will receive 4 viable chinquapin seeds to grow and monitor for 3 years as part of their research project.
My Project
Students need rakes and shovels for construction of the trails in the labyrinth garden and for planting native grasses, shrubs and a Chinquapin tree.
The mission for this project is two-fold: 1) students will incorporate reading, science, math, social studies, and health when they research labyrinths, design and build a labyrinth that leads to a Chinquapin oak, fountain and sitting area in the outdoor classroom for use by all students in grades Pre-K through 12 and general public. 2) Research demonstrates that focused walking mediation in a labyrinth has significant long-term health benefits, including lower blood pressure, weight control, reduced stress, increased spacial reasoning aptitude, and focused concentration. This project will benefit all who use the labyrinth.
•Teachers, students and general public can use the area for exercise, meditation, study, or classroom activities.
•Students have purpose for learning math, science, language arts and social studies by applying these to a real-life project. They learn about environmental stewardship/community service and take pride in ownership.
•Planting a chinquapin in the labyrinth, they promote environmental awareness.
•We have established plan, administrative support, perfect spot, and enthusiastic students
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Rusert and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.