Nearby Refugio HS is moving gradually toward a more authentic, real-world, interdisciplinary model for learning, and is looking for local resources for this type of learning to occur. Our science and math teachers are planning on taking the students on a local hike to begin evaluating what is needed for a program like that to be successful. The activities will mostly be exercises in observation, note-taking, some thought-provoking writing prompts that will occur after the hike. The hike will also serve as an alternative activity for their PE class. Also in terms of what we might expect from a hike leader: Since this is our first visit, we may want to have a tour that would serve as a good introduction to the reserve. I hope that it might be a bit interdisciplinary, involving some local history of the reserve, some of the reasons for the reserve, a survey of some scientific studies that have been conducted (or are currently being conducted) and how those are accomplished. I am more interested in our students getting to see some nature, getting some physical activity, and developing a broader sense of science and its applications.

Approved