In May, we finished up our school year with LearningWorks. The goal of LearningWorks AfterSchool (LWAS) is to provide “free, high-quality after-school and summer programs for students in grades Pre-K-5 who are academically performing below or partially below grade level and may not have the resources to access a paid after-school enrichment or tutoring program.”
Starting in the fall of 2023, this past school year I’ve spent an afternoon each week at East End Community School (EECS) and Gerald E. Community School in Portland. Both sites served approximately 15 students, with new students joining throughout the year.
Our sessions focused on Maine wildlife and habitat. Activities included examining wildlife taxidermy, schoolyard walks, dissecting owl pellets, winter tracking, birding, bird feeder and window decal making, art, getting to know our native plants, and making seedballs.
All sessions also left time for free exploration and building outside, and playing some of our favorite games such as Camouflage and Predator & Prey.
A highlight from the year was watching the solar eclipse with students from EECS atop Munjoy Hill. While our piece of the world darkened and the temperature cooled, we all burst with sheer amazement from the awesomeness of the moon passing over the sun.
I’m always reminded in environmental education how much students love to be outside exploring and playing. After-school programs allow for the flexibility and freedom to integrate education, joy, and wonder. We love our partnership with LearningWorks and look forward to continuing to work together at whatever schools are needed. My hope is that by working together, students learn more about Maine’s flora and fauna, build a greater connection to nature and their schoolyard, and develop a greater sense of responsibility to their environment and community.
Thank you, LearningWorks!
