Fifth graders in Mrs. Butler’s class at Ruby Carver Elementary have been working on an in-depth and ongoing study of natural disasters. Students were given the choice of a natural disaster they were interested in and began with research. Mr. John Bernier, WRIC-TV Chief Meteorologist, visited and spoke with students about weather systems and the climate and regions behind different weather episodes. After researching “their” natural disaster, the intent was to truly give a human impact side to these events. To help with that, Mr. Jonathan McNamara, Communications Director of American Red Cross, visited and spoke with the students about his experiences in responding to these disasters and helping people (and sometimes animals) in need. He empowered the students by charging them to be ambassadors in getting the word out to the community about how to be safe and plan ahead of these weather events. Students have been inspired to collaborate with each other to come up with a way to communicate this important learning . . . whether it be a PSA, model, poster, etc. Mr. McNamara has been instrumental in sustaining their inquiry and guiding them in this process. He will also be providing feedback and will continue to help them along the way in their projects! Phenomenal!