Education Update Spring 2025
By Jessica Saxton
Education Committee Article- Spring & Summer Program Updates
As we welcome the changing seasons, we are excited to share several upcoming programs and opportunities designed to engage and inspire our youth in nature, education, and community service. We also have some great volunteer opportunities and updates on schools receiving educational programming. Let’s dive in!
Shadow Pond Survey Initiative
This spring, we will continue conducting surveys and observations at Shadow Pond. We’re excited to have three student volunteers from Umpqua Community College join us for this project! The volunteers will help with data collection and contribute to environmental research. We are always interested in more volunteers joining in these efforts. If you’re interested or know someone who would be, please contact us!
Applegate Wetlands and Pond
For another year, volunteers and students from local schools have come together at Susan Applegate’s wetlands to learn about invasive and native species, remove invasive bullfrogs, and restore native populations. Learn more about these efforts in the AmeriCorps article!
Eastwood Nature Days
Looking ahead to Spring 2025, we’re excited about Eastwood Nature Days, which will take place from May 5th to 9th. This event will offer students from various schools hands-on outdoor learning experiences, fostering a deeper connection to nature and environmental awareness. We can’t wait for the students to engage with the outdoors and explore the wonders of the natural world!
Summer Programs: A Look Ahead
Our summer programs are shaping up to be an exciting and enriching experience for youth in our community:
- UW Summer Programs – Twin Lakes Camp Out
Get ready for a summer campout at Twin Lakes this June! We will carry on the tradition of hosting an educational summer campout, where youth can explore the outdoors, learn about the environment, and discover how to enjoy nature responsibly while leaving no trace. Stay tuned for more information on how your child can get involved in this fun and educational adventure. - UNLSH Summer Camp – July 2025
Youth can also take advantage of the UNLSH Summer Camp this summer, which will take place in July 2025 in collaboration with Umpqua Watersheds. We are committed to establishing a diverse, enriching experience that encourages discovery and outdoor learning!
In addition to the programs above, we are actively brainstorming ideas for expanding our reach and engaging more youth. We believe that connecting with more students and families will strengthen our community and broaden the impact of our educational programs. If you have any suggestions or ideas, please feel free to share!
Schools Receiving Education Programming
We are proud to partner with various schools to bring engaging educational experiences to youth across the region, both in the classroom and outdoors. Julie Lowe, our UCAN AmeriCorps member, offers a variety of incredible educational programs to the following schools this year:
- Head Start
- Jo Lane
- Eastwood Elementary School
- Umpqua Valley Co-Op
- Maple Corner Montessori
- Cow Creek Schools
- Phoenix Charter School
Educational Hikes
We are thrilled to offer educational hikes this summer. These hikes promote environmental education and introduce adults and youth to the outdoors. Participants will have an up-close look at our region’s ecosystems. Check out the events section for dates, and reach out if you are interested!
With so much happening this spring and summer, we’re eager to see the positive impact these programs will have on our youth. As always, thank you to all of our volunteers, educators, and partners who make these opportunities possible. We can’t wait to see you out there!
