The Nature Explore Classroom at

Schibel Teaching Farm and

Childcare Center

In September 2012, at the beginning of the school year, a big open house was held to point out why Schibel Teaching Farm is different and how parents can use some of the ideas learned at the Farm in their own homes.

Since the open house, recycling drives have been held, parent work days organized, and parent planning meetings hosted to involve families in activities that are being done with their children. Families have helped plan garden beds for the coming year, plan out curriculum for the "Winter" theme, and are always asking the question, "What else can we do?" Schibel Teaching Farm is also working with a local green company to help guide other schools to begin composting programs, create outdoor classroom spaces, and to engage in recycling.

Clean-up efforts continue to make sure the certified Nature Explore Classroom at Schibel Teaching Farm is appealing to the eye and that parents and children continue to see the beauty of nature. Changes are made throughout the year to always keep it looking fresh and new.

For annual, professional staff development relating to nature education, staff participated in Let's Play Outdoors led by Yesinia Sharp on February 1, 2013 at Schibel Teaching Farm.