A Successful Year of Learning

This was the most successful year of our Science and Nature Education Program ever! We created and delivered 20 science lessons to youth on Mayne Island in collaboration with the Mayne School, the Gulf Islands Center for Ecological Learning, and the School District 64 Middle Years Program. Using our local beaches and forests as an outdoor classroom, we led students on an exploration of local environments.

Students ask questions during an outdoor lesson about forests.

Students ask questions about forests at Edith Point.

Outdoor Learning

Mayne Island may not have a Science Center or Aquarium, but we have abundant natural areas to explore. Where better to observe plants and animals than in their natural habitats! In the 2016/17 school year we took students across the island on field trips to experience hands on learning.

A school lesson at the beach.

Students hunt for hidden creatures of the mud at Village Bay during a low tide.

Lots to Learn

We explored a broad range of topics this year, ranging from tidal forces to tree growth and edible plants. We learned about amphibian life cycles, animal nutrition, dissected owl pellets, and dug up hidden creatures in the mud. On our travels through the hills, forests, and shorelines of Mayne Island we encountered all kinds of plants and animals.

Elementary students observe ocean creatures in an aquarium at the beach.

Students examine creatures that live under the mud in inter-tidal ecosystems.

A Vibrant Team

Our summer students Abbie Sherwood and Izaiah Sheerin were able to connect with local students to share their passion for environmental education. Getting exposure to young professionals is an added bonus for young students living on Mayne Island. Working closely with the dynamic staff at the Mayne School allows us to create lessons that complement the learning students are doing in the classroom.

Young environmental educators engage with youth from Mayne Island ElementarySchool.

Students engage with young environmental educators while playing a game about energy transfer in food webs.

You Can Help

We need your help to cover the cost of the Community Bus for the 2017/18 school year. Please consider making a donation to help us continue offering this valuable education program.

Students share a digital microscope


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