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KIN provides an opportunity for the children to step outside the typical educational realm.
It expands the children’s view of their world. |
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When asked what they have learned through KIN, students are quick to recall many facts. “We have learned how long it takes for an oak tree to grow and how erosion starts. We also learned about different kinds of birds, like the American Kestrel,” says fifth grader Brianna Gomez, from Ontiveros Elementary. Her classmate, Armando Medina, exclaims he applies his knowledge from KIN by planting flowers at his house with his mother. “I can tell what kind of flowers and rocks they are!” he says. “I learned lots of cool things. I like it when we go on hikes and learn new stuff!” he adds.
Parents and teachers appreciate KIN as an opportunity for the children to step outside the typical educational realm. “I think this is a fantastic program that should be a part of every elementary grade because it expands the children’s view of their world. It gives them a common experience they can draw from to use in the classroom,” says Mrs. Hernandez, a fourth grade teacher at Arellanes Elementary.
The hard work and dedication of directors, volunteers, docents, and teachers pays off when children walk away with new knowledge and the inspiration to continue with environmental studies. Eleven year old Concepcion Keyes, a fifth grader at Arellanes Elementary who aspires to attend college so she can teach kids about the environment says, “I like EVERYTHING about KIN!” When asked what she would say to children who are not in the program, she quickly responds, “Go to the Sedgwick Reserve!”
As a non-profit organization, Kids in Nature highly depends on monetary contributions for its continuation. Parents and teachers agree that maintaining the program for the participation of future generations is of great importance. Mrs. Razo hopes that her younger son, Rafael, will also get to participate in KIN. “It’s unfortunate that my older son wasn’t able to have this wonderful opportunity. However, we are thankful that Jose has, and hope that Rafael will also gain this learning experience like his older brother.”
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