Environmental Sciences: Hands on Learning Outside the Classroom
Averill Elementary Students have numerous opportunities to integrate hands-on learning as they study nature and the environment.
The Averill Park Woods, just feet away from the school, provides a 3 acre living laboratory for study. With a partnership between the school, neighborhood association, and Michigan State University Students the trails have been reclaimed and expanded for use by students and residents while respecting and preserving the natural habitat.
This area contains highly unique flora and fauna. Woodland plants such as trillium and jack-in-the-pulpit abound in the spring. The unique Iron Trees can be located in the inner trails. The area has a rare and very important vernal pond which is habitat critical to sustain wildlife such as frogs and toads. Home to ducks, hawks, and deer, and other animals, the woods provide a unique classroom in the city environment.
The Averill Park Woods, just feet away from the school, provides a 3 acre living laboratory for study. With a partnership between the school, neighborhood association, and Michigan State University Students the trails have been reclaimed and expanded for use by students and residents while respecting and preserving the natural habitat.
This area contains highly unique flora and fauna. Woodland plants such as trillium and jack-in-the-pulpit abound in the spring. The unique Iron Trees can be located in the inner trails. The area has a rare and very important vernal pond which is habitat critical to sustain wildlife such as frogs and toads. Home to ducks, hawks, and deer, and other animals, the woods provide a unique classroom in the city environment.
Vermiculture
Under the guidance of teacher, Ms. Wesley, Averill students have been learning the benefits of composting for many years. Students feed their "pet" worms scraps left over from lunch in the giant underground worm bin at the school.
Recyling
Working with teachers and interns from Michigan State University, students have increased their involvement in recycling materials at school. Thanks to the newly developed recycling facilities at MSU, an expanded range of items can be recycled, including all plastics, that are not yet recyclable through the City of Lansing curbside recycling program.
Gardening
Working together, the school and the neighborhood association are starting a garden to be used by the community as well as students. Many resources for these efforts are available at kidsgardening.