School in the Forest
Feedback
Teachers and principals are enthusiastic about their School in the Forest experiences.
“Black Rock gives our students the opportunity to see nature undisturbed and to observe the natural processes living things go through in a forest, and it affords the teachers the resources to expand and enhance the curriculum.In the long run, the studies will hopefully influence the students’ appreciation for the part they can play in safeguarding our natural resources.”
Miriam Pedraja, principal of PS 311
“The trip was incredible and we can’t stop comparing everything else in the curriculum to what we learned at Black Rock. . . . [We] believe that the classroom community was changed by the bonds we created in your care.”
A teacher at PS 311
“Boundless excitement and joy.”
Michele Kahn, principal of PS 220
And some comments from participating teachers in their Spring 2006 end-of-year evaluations.
“The entire experience was great for the students.They gained more at Black Rock than we can give in the classroom.The staff is very knowledgeable and they are excellent teachers.The Lodge experience was very good.”
“The hike and the animal and plant identification was a great experience.Students learn to appreciate nature and get scientific understanding at the same time.The sampling activities at the Upper Reservoir were excellent.Identification and recording data was good for scientific inquiry.The solo walk gave the students a sense of independence and collaboration with partners.”
“The SITF program is “amazing”.What I loved was building dams, catching and observing animals, discussing and visiting different habitats.”
“The hiking, pond study, habitat studies and labs were excellent.”
