SECOND GRADE
Butterfly Garden
In the spring of 2013, second graders (along with first graders and kindergarteners) planted a butterfly garden. Students had the opportunity to understand the importance of soil, water and sun while they created a habitat for butterflies.
Healthy Living
In 2013, the second grade classes participated in classroom lessons with the Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital's Healthy Living Academy. The program increased student knowledge about life as an ecosystem, how they fit in and sustainability as they explore the topics of: nutrition, healthy eating, and physical activity. About 65 students learned about how their bodies are dependent on healthy foods and the role they must play in environmental stewardship. The staff from the hospital came to the Mt. Washington School and taught the lessons over a 4 week span. Kindergarten, first, and third grades also participated in this program.
THIRD GRADE
Migration Creations
During the spring of 2013, approximately 30
third graders participated in an art and environmental class that focused
on the long distance migration of monarch butterflies and ruby-throated
hummingbirds. Students explored the language of Spanish while also
enjoying discovery lessons and art activities including: papier-mâché
chrysalides, sock birds, flowerpots and more. To further their studies,
students created a butterfly habitat in the schoolyard.
Edible Schoolyard
In the fall of 2011, third graders had the
opportunity to explore the concept of edible gardens, the benefits of a
plant-based diet and the role they plan in maintaining balanced
ecosystems. Students were treated to Salad Fridays where they learned
about where food comes from, how their bodies use food and sustainable
ways to harvest natural resources.