On three days this winter, I was a volunteer with the middle grades ski days at Larch Hills. I had my own group and was partnered with a guide of the area to go explore the trails. Some students had little ski experience, however it was new to most. I knew most of the students as they are in my daughters class, and it was amazing to see the students coming out of their shell. This volunteer experience confirmed my thoughts on how much learning and growth can be done out in nature.
My daughter really loved the cross-country ski adventure, she did not hesitate to have another opportunity to ski. The Elementary Schools “Pirate Loppet” is an inclusive event where participants, teachers, chaperones are encouraged to dress in Pirate theme in ski-friendly clothes. The students have the opportunity to do a 5k or 10k ski. This volunteer experience was really great to integrate myself into the community; networking. I made some great connections on the trail, although it was helping the students and their joy that really got me. This event was a great way to engage students and get them outside.
I was a volunteer for another gr 3-5 field trip. We went to Green Farms, a local nursery located in our community of Canoe. Here the students gained knowledge of where our food comes from, promoting respect and sustainable practices. Most importantly, the kids got to get dirty. The kids engaged in planting their own seed and watering it. The nursery will hold on to the plants until they sprout, then they will be handed over to the classroom so students can learn and watch their seeds grow, before taking them home. I love watching how other teacher take control and engage their student. It is always such a learning experience engaging with other teachers.
I volunteered for the k-gr2 classes to go skating on several occasions. For many of the students skating was quite new to them. This experience was great for showing me that learning takes patience and time. I worked with several students offering support, to help them lean the skills and develop confidence to engage and enjoy themselves.