O.A.K. (Outdoor Adventure Knowledge) Program Outings
My students need 1 GPS and 8 field guides to correctly identify local species and locations to accurately report on local habitat to decision makers and supporters.
Nature Deficit Disorder is abundant, even in a frontier state like Wyoming. The primary goal of our program is to enhance student understanding of and relationship to the local environment through an extracurricular outdoor learning opportunity called O.A.K. (Outdoor Adventure and Knowledge).
Wyoming is a frontier state that prides itself on its abundant mineral wealth and outdoor opportunities.
However, state lawmakers, communities, industry, and stakeholders are in constant discussions about how our wild spaces are utilized and/or preserved. We want to empower our students in becoming a vocal steward of their community through extensive knowledge gained from guest speakers, literature, and experimental field outings.
We designed this program to aid students in developing stronger ties to our communities and fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world. By utilizing real world environmental issues and experts, we aim to teach the students to be impactful activists for our communities and natural habitats.
My Project
The resources we are requesting will aid our K-12 students in a rural and economically challenged area in the creation of scientific method based experiments during field studies focused upon local ecology, zoology, and geology. They will utilize field guides to create a localized field guide to plants, animals, and geology. The will be promoting community stewardship through activities, videos, and writings based upon knowledge gained.
They will use GPS devices to aid in development of interest in cartography and local landscapes. Additionally, they'll collect and graph data such as; mileage and elevation changes during field experiences with intent to focus on mathematics application. Our program should aid students in developing the understanding of lasting physical and mental health components of outdoor activities. Lastly, our program will connect students to community professionals in order to formulate long term college and occupational goals.
Our students live in a rural and economically challenged area of Wyoming.
We have a high rate of students who live in single parent households or with their grandparents, many of which have no college education. The primary purpose of our program is to connect our students to positive role models and our abundant public lands. By offering guidance through role modeling, stewardship, and academic achievements we hope to break disheartening economic and social cycles these students live in.
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