March 21, 2011

Welcome to Spring!

Spring has sprung and, if you’re like me, you are super busy with events, weddings, and enjoying this beautiful Texas Spring weather. Springtime in Texas is the perfect time to explore our natural world in Houston. And our natural world directly connects to Science and the ocean – two topics that have graced the news lately and are worth paying attention to!
The Houston Chronicle reported last Thursday that out of 34 countries to give the International Student Assessment exam to 15 year olds, the U.S. ranked 17th in science, 25th in math, and 14th in reading! The U.S. Education Secretary is alarmed, I’m alarmed, and you should be too!
We spend so much on education and yet we’re failing to educate! The article goes on to say that a major predictor of a countries performance on this exam can be traced to how they treat their teachers, how much teachers get paid, and the prevalence of teacher’s unions (as a positive influence on student performance). At a time when teachers are under fire from every direction, this article talks about how valuable and necessary it is to give teachers the props they deserve!
To this end, we’ll be showcasing two “Spark Plug” teachers at our 15th Annual Gala on April 28th, who have gone above and beyond in giving their students hands-on, minds-on environmental education experiences with Bayou Land Conservancy’s “No Child Left Inside” program. Stay tuned for more details!
And last but not least, National Environmental Education Week is April 10-16, 2011! The theme is Ocean Connections. It’s easy to forget but here in Houston we’re lucky to be tied to the Gulf of Mexico economically, environmentally, and through recreation. Check out this message from NOAA Administrator Jane Lubchenco.
Children who learn and play in nature are Happier, Healthier, and Smarter!

February 10, 2011

Day Camp!

We are gearing up for our Spring Break Natural History Day Camp and we are so excited. We’re offering this camp to Houston area 5th and 6th graders, who have an interest in being outside or who don’t even know they love the outdoors yet! This is an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Texas springtime and be outside. While parents work, we play and learn in the incredibly diverse Houston outdoors.
Come join us for a new experience and lots of fun!
Children who learn and play in nature are Happier, Healthier, and Smarter!

February 1, 2011

Science Field Trips

Thank you to the over 800 teachers and students, from 5th graders to 12th graders from all over the Houston area, who participated in our Science Field Trips at Little Cypress Creek Preserve in the last four months. We had a great time! We hope you all continue to get curious about the world around you and explore the outdoors in Houston.
Children who learn and play in nature are Happier, Healthier, and Smarter!