July 10, 2006
An exciting new education program was launched in Palm Desert classrooms in the fall of 2005 to get local school children in touch with the natural wonders in their backyard. Through a unique partnership with the Desert Healthcare District, Anderson Children’s Foundation and The Community Foundation, the Friends and the National Monument are involved in an innovative program to integrate nature study and science education with healthy living skills.
In a program developed by National Monument Interpretive Specialist Tracy Albrecht and Friends’ staff, local 4th graders participate in a classroom lesson presented by Monument staff and Friends volunteers, followed by a field trip into the National Monument.
In the classroom, students learn about the plants and animals that make the National Monument their home. They are also taught about the health benefits of hiking, how to safely enjoy the outdoors and proper nutrition.
In beginning their field trip, they prepare with appropriate stretching exercises and sunscreen applications. During the field trip to the Indian Canyons, made possible through support from the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the students take a 3-mile hike, using pedometers to measure steps and carrying a field guide to record sightings of particular plants and animals along the trail.
This fall we plan to expand the program to even more schools in the Coachella Valley. We need volunteers to help in this exciting program, presenting lessons in the classroom and on field trips with the students. Training is provided. Contact the Friends at (760) 568-9918.
