Building Structures for Learning About the Environment
Several structures exist at West Middle School for learning about the environment. We have an outdoor classroom and bluebird trail. The trail and gardens around the school are maintained annually by students, providing an excellent hands-on learning experience. We have continued to maintain and add boxes to our bluebird trail which has actually been in existence for nearly 20 years. Recently we installed a camera in a new box in our courtyard and the entire school has been able to watch and listen as bluebirds nest, lay eggs, hatch, develop, and fledge for the past two years.
Also, during our ongoing courtyard renovation project we have created a nature trail leading students past several identified native plantings. A solar powered fountain was also installed which provides an excellent opportunity for students to witness first-hand the benefits of renewable energy.
Finally, West Middle School has collaborated with an Alumnus wishing to complete his Eagle Scout project. For this, he will be removing a large non-native holly bush and replacing it with an octagon-shaped teaching deck with seating for an entire class of 35 students. This space will be perfect for lessons and presentations by many classes throughout the school.
Building Structures for Learning About the Environment
Several structures exist at West Middle School for learning about the environment. We have an outdoor classroom and bluebird trail. The trail and gardens around the school are maintained annually by students, providing an excellent hands-on learning experience. We have continued to maintain and add boxes to our bluebird trail which has actually been in existence for nearly 20 years. Recently we installed a camera in a new box in our courtyard and the entire school has been able to watch and listen as bluebirds nest, lay eggs, hatch, develop, and fledge for the past two years.
Also, during our ongoing courtyard renovation project we have created a nature trail leading students past several identified native plantings. A solar powered fountain was also installed which provides an excellent opportunity for students to witness first-hand the benefits of renewable energy.
Finally, West Middle School has collaborated with an Alumnus wishing to complete his Eagle Scout project. For this, he will be removing a large non-native holly bush and replacing it with an octagon-shaped teaching deck with seating for an entire class of 35 students. This space will be perfect for lessons and presentations by many classes throughout the school.