A typical day in my classroom involves a rich curriculum incorporated with purposeful movement. Jean Blaydes says, "Physical activity grows brain cells, and that cerebellum research tells us, "What makes us move, makes us think."
My school is at a high poverty rate.
Many of the students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. Ruby Payne states, "Almost all children of poverty rely on kinesthetic strengths for learning." They need encouragement from the school to show them that learning can be enjoyable and experiences and memories can be made. Taking these sixth graders to the Flatrock River YMCA Camp will allow them to work on team building and give them an opportunity to learn more about the great outdoors. This amazing opportunity will allow students to develop skills and build friendships within the camp community. This will set the tone for the remainder of the school year.
My Project
Do you remember the excitement felt as a child the first time you went camping? I sure do and I’d like for our students to be able to have this same experience. I’d also like to use this overnight trip as a way to increase parent and family engagement. This trip will promote families to get outside and spend some quality time with each other in a positive way.
Many of our sixth graders have never been camping before.
At camp, they will be able to explore and understand science and nature in a natural setting. Many of our students do not normally get to experience nature first hand. Camp may open their eyes to possible opportunities for a future career in science. This experience will provide an opportunity for students to engage in their natural environment without a digital connection.
Outdoor environments naturally inspire children to be more physically active which is greatly needed in this day and age. Outdoor education is an experience that not only increases scientific knowledge and skills, but it builds community and culture, increases connection between students, and develops positive associations around school and the outdoors. My students will leave the program with a new sense of personal responsibility, independence, and understanding of the natural world around them. For many of our students, this may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience and we want to make sure that they make the most of it. What a great way to get families involved!
More than half of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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