From noon until 1pm
At Nature Learning Center
With the growing demands of teachers and students to align themselves with the Common Core, Next Generation Science Standards and standard based curriculum, it might seem there are fewer options in education. Meet the staff of Maine Environmental Science Academy, Jotham Oliver, Carolyn Lewey, and Megan Barry as they discuss their unique approach to meeting these standards. They have successfully broadened the horizons of students for the past four years using the community, its partners, as well as the natural world through a program that goes beyond hands-on learning.
These three educators in the Maine Environmental Science Academy were honored with Tin Mountain Conservation Center’s Outstanding Environmental Educators Award at their 17th Annual Meeting on Saturday, May 16, 2015.
MESA works in conjunction with Tin Mountain on a weekly basis. Dr. Michael Cline facilitates environmental programs and the Tin Mountain Naturalists often participate with their specialized skills in bird ecology, forest management, mammal behavior, etc.
The MESA staff and students utilize the Tin Mountain Nature Learning Center with its network of trail systems, and the Bear Paw lands. Students at MESA are also introduced to the Tin Mountain interns working on ongoing scientific research focusing on native brook trout rehabilitation, as well as avian and forest ecology.
According to the MSAD 72 website: “MESA, a specialized program which focuses heavily on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) studies from an ecological perspective, offers a unique opportunity to students in grades 6-8 to complete their middle school years in an experiential setting. Through a rigorous, ecology-based curriculum, students will develop 21st Century Skills. The objective of the program is to give students the opportunity to learn about their surrounding environment; to be introduced to the state curriculum standards through authentic experiences that bring standards to life; and to provide personal growth opportunities creating a culture of leadership and teamwork. Students will design, organize, and implement activities and programs which will enhance district schools and our surrounding towns. Located near wetlands, forests and fields, MESA is perfectly situated for place-based education.”
Tin Mountain’s monthly EcoForum Series is held the second Thursday of the month and is FREE and open to the public. Enjoy free pizza from series sponsor The Flatbread Company, and coffee from Frontside Grind. Tin Mountain Conservation Center is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit environmental education program serving the greater Mount Washington Valley for over 35 years. For more information about Tin Mountain call Donna Dolan at 603-447-6991, visit www.tinmountain.org or become a friend on Facebook.