Foothills parents are invited to give their thoughts on a possible outdoor learning program.

The Nature-Based Learning program was conceptualized by three Foothills teachers, Ryan Lemphers, Bobbie Mappin, and Graham Campbell, who have been implementing outdoor learning into their lesson plans for the last several years.

This style of teaching is meant to immerse students in their community, and to encourage a calm and engaging learning environment.

Lemphers says it really transforms the way in which students absorb information.

"They see that the world is beyond the school. When it's placed in the real world it's motivating, because their learning matters. It's not a worksheet, it's actually something that's happening physically, they're seeing this world around them in a different way."

With these outdoor lessons having been met with enthusiasm among their students, Lemphers says they then considered the possibility of a dedicated outdoor learning program.

"We thought 'hey, wouldn't it be great if we could work towards actually doing this as an alternative program in the school division where students registered just like French immersion, with a through-line all the way from kindergarten to grade 6."

After some proposals to the Foothills School Division, Campbell and Lemphers were given approval to conduct a feasibility study to gauge interest from local parents.

The study consists of a one-question poll, as well as a longer-form survey to inform parents of how the program would be run, as well as to gauge local interest and support.

On the engagement webpage, parents will find a fairly detailed look at the proposed program, including frequently asked questions, feedback from parents and students, and even the 34 page program proposal.

Campbell says they anticipate further questions from parents, which are very much welcome.

"There's a spot there to ask questions, and we'll reply to those. Whatever questions they want to ask, people can ask. We love talking about this and we're passionate about how it can make a difference in the lives of children in the Foothills region."

He says the poll and survey aren't limited to parents with children in the Foothills School Division.

"The program is aimed at parents in the Okotoks community and surrounding areas, regardless of the school board that they're attending right now. We're hoping to get a feel from all Okotoks families with school children in that K-6 range."

Lemphers says from the outdoor classes they've been conducting so far, they've observed tangible positive results.

"Parents say 'I used to have to do all this stuff for them, but now they get ready, they check the weather forecast the night before, they pack their clothes based on what the weather and activities are going to be.' Parents are really amazed by that. They show up every day, they're excited to learn, and then they're excited to share what they've learned with their parents when they get home. That's every teacher's dream."

Feedback from the poll and survey will contribute to their presentation on January 27th, after which FSD's board of trustees will determine whether or not they can begin a pilot program.

The survey will remain open until December 4th.

For more information on the program, or to take the survey, click here.

 

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