Developing and Implementing an Outdoor Environmental Resident Program for Seventh Grade that Infuses Art, Music, Science, Math, Social Studies, and Language Arts in the Mequon-Thiensville School District

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to develop and implement an outdoor environmental resident program for the seventh grade that infuses environmental education within all disciplines, and create a program that exists as an extension to the classroom. Additionally, it was necessary to develop on-site courses that utilize environmental themes. In March of 2003, a staff development course, Guided Projects in Environmental Education, was conducted in order to provide training to staff. During the ten-hour course several objectives were accomplished. The agenda provided lesson models, time to research the district's EE Library, and a field trip to an outdoor site. In order to promote interdisciplinary connections of environmental education within our program, specific subject team meetings were held to develop and record the integration within disciplines. According to a brief staff survey given to all participants, the staff development course was well received and all are interested in more offerings the future. Implementation of the program occurred in October of 2003. An informal evaluation of the program was given to students and parents using a survey. A pre and post- test was given to students in order to evaluate learner outcomes. Results indicate that the environmental resident program at Steffen Middle School is now a seamless extension to classroom curriculum and has provided students with an increased awareness and knowledge about the natural environment.