Another Teacher Testimonial!

Earth Day at Brook Park

Having reserved the date 8 months in advance to be sure of a special Earth Day celebration, one might think my expectations could have been let down.  However our day at Brook Park far exceeded my expectations and our group of about 80 3-5 grade students was easily accommodated.  We began with a tour of the Park which included opportunities for the students to taste fresh mint and garlic straight from the ground (perhaps the order should have been reversed).  Following the tour, they were grouped at various stations--carrying wood, planting bushes, and digging up the asphalt.  My class spent most of our time performing the latter task and, while it is a bit scary as a teacher to watch your students use sledge hammers, the kids had an AMAZING time.  Our final task following clean up was to walk the labyrinth, which provided students the chance to center themselves and basically meditate.  While the first walk though the labyrinth was a bit talkative it was pretty amazing to see that by the second time these students who never experience a moment of silence in their lives were able for at least 10 minutes or so to truly calm down and focus on their inner selves.  Throughout all of these activities and excitement Harry Bubbins continuously brought the students attention back to the mission of Brook Park and the importance of green spaces in our city.  Our Earth Day celebration was a highlight of the year, however I highly recommend bringing your classes to explore Brook Park any day of the year.

Rachel Petev, 4th grade teacher at P.S. 241: The Family Academy