North Star Nature Center News

AMDA Nature Based Learning Connections & Resources

January 2025

RIT CASCADE Research Project

This year, our school is partnering with the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and New York Sea Grant to bring the CASCADE Program to our curriculum. CASCADE, which stands for Community Action for Stormwater Clean-up And Debris Elimination, is designed to engage students in real-world environmental stewardship and real scientific research while enriching their academic experience.

Needed Time in the Nature Center

Spending time in the nature center with our tortoises, Stiggy and Petunia, offers students a unique opportunity to engage with nature in a meaningful and hands-on way. Interacting with these gentle creatures fosters curiosity, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the natural world.

The presence of animals has been shown to reduce stress, enhance emotional well-being, and improve focus—key benefits for students navigating academic and personal growth.

Lollypop Farm Weekly Lessons

Lollypop Farm educators work weekly with our 2nd-grade students on humane treatment of animals literacy lessons. Through mission-based programming, Lollypop Farm’s Humane Education department inspires generations of animal lovers to lead with compassion and speak up for those who can’t speak for themselves.

New York State Education Law § 809 mandates humane education to be taught in elementary schools.

The Growing Impact of Nature-Based Learning at School 12

Every day, students eagerly ask, "When do we have nature-based?" This seemingly simple question speaks volumes about the impact of our nature-based learning (NBL) program. It reflects the excitement and value students place on these experiences, emphasizing how deeply NBL has become a cherished part of our school culture. To me, it’s a clear sign that we’re on the right path!

Classes participate in NBL on a three-week rotation, ensuring every student regularly spends time outdoors and engages with the natural world. This year, our program has been enriched by incredible community partners, including Foodlink, Lollypop Farm, NYS Parks, The University of Rochester, WXXI PBS Kids, and Broccolo. Our longstanding partnership with Rochester Ecology Partners continues to be vital, providing invaluable resources, guidance, and teaching classes. This growing network of collaborators not only enhances the student experience but also strengthens our connection to the broader community. Each partner supports specific themes at different grade levels, ensuring students gain a progression of knowledge and experiences that prepare them to become nature ambassadors. By the time they leave School 12, our students will carry with them a deep understanding of the natural world and an appreciation for connecting with nature.

It’s heartening to hear students express empathy for insects, birds, and trees, identifying them as "living things" and demonstrating their growing respect for the environment. One of the most remarkable cultural shifts at School 12 is the shared enthusiasm for nature-based learning across all grade levels. From PreK to 6th grade, every class actively participates in standards-based NBL lessons. Teachers appreciate how the program fosters wonder and creativity while bringing joy to their students—and, dare I say, it has brought joy to the teachers themselves. Whether it’s doing math in the garden, journaling under a tree, or caring for our tortoises, Stiggy and Petunia, in the nature center, the program has sparked a genuine love for learning and nature that resonates throughout the entire school community.

Our Nature-Based Learning Program has not only transformed my perspective on education but has also redefined the culture of School 12. It has inspired students, teachers, and families to see the natural world as a vibrant classroom full of possibilities. As we continue to grow this program, we are not just educating students but cultivating future stewards of the environment. The daily excitement and engagement I witness affirm that this journey is making a lasting impact—and I am eager to see where it will lead next.

Yours in nature for 2025, Kyra Stephenson

Nature-Based Learning Evidence of Success

The NBL team is committed to evaluating the impact of our program on students, with a focus on academic growth, holistic wellness, and fostering a deeper connection to the natural world. Our evaluation methods include Wellness Check-In cards, observations, analysis of student work, student feedback, and staff surveys, providing a comprehensive understanding of the program's influence.

We continuously strive for excellence by aligning with our mission and embracing opportunities for growth. Currently, researchers from SUNY Brockport are studying the outcomes of our program to further assess its effectiveness. Below are a few examples highlighting how students have experienced and benefited from nature-based learning.

1st Grade Nature Journal Entry

4th Grade NBL Feedback

Looking Forward To:

AMDA School 12 - Global School Play Day

February 5th

Email Kyra Stephenson

If you are interested in supporting Global School Play Day please contact Kyra Stephenson. We will be looking for volunteers to help plan the day as well as volunteers during the event.

Recommended Nature Theme Books

Nature Tales for Winter Nights

by Nancy Campbell (Editor)

Winter's Gifts

by Kaitlin B. Curtice (author); Gloria Félix (artist)

The First Day of Winter

by Denise Fleming

Blankets & Books - Family Events

December Blankets & Books with Lollypop Farm

Blankets & Books - Lollypop Farm Humane Treatment of Animals Night

We believe in the power of community connection and learning, and our Blanket & Books Events are a cherished way to bring everyone together. This year, we're thrilled to welcome several community partners who will share their expertise and enrich the experience. We look forward to seeing you at School 12 as we celebrate the joy of learning and togetherness.