What a neat day!
We spent the morning at the Forest Valley Outdoor Education Centre apart of Toronto's Outdoor education. There are 4 day centers and 5 overnight centers.
The overnight programs are a required part of the curriculum for all schools. Forest Valley sees about 17,000 students per year. The outdoor centers have a centrally assigned Principal, Coordinator for Outdoor Learning, and Site Supervisors.
Students share that being outside makes them feel more connected to learning. Schools are charged to be able to use the center. The cost Is 1/3 government, 1/3 Toronto District and the last 1/3 paid for by each school.
The newest discussing Is starting outdoor education In elementary schools so that students eventually become the advocates to get us all outside.
Visiting Forest Valley felt invigorating and blown away that this must Investment is put into ensuring students are learning outdoors and are provided with opportunities to get outside off campus. The goal Is to also make sure students know and feel the enduring presence of all First Nations, Metis and Inuit people. "We understand Indigenous peoples are not something of the past but of the present/future.
Upon arrival, the center offer cedar hot tea and homemade maple raisin bread. David Hawker-Budlovsky, the center's principal shared facts and Information about outdoor education In Toronto and urged, "Outdoor education needs to be happening every day, In every district".
The center offered us rain jackets and rain boots If needed and we all went on a mini-expedition in the outdoor spaces. While visiting Forest Valley, students learn how to make maple syrup, raise bees, make fires, lead hikes, and participate In teamwork, leadership building activities.
I dream of getting my students outdoors!