Newport Middle School is developing an Outdoor Learning Center (OLC), this according to Tonya Scott, Sixth Grade Science Teacher, who presented the program at the Newport Rotary Club on May 5, 2008.
Ms. Scott, who was inspired to create the OLC by the "Last Child in the Woods" book by Richard Louv, told of her upbringing on a farm in Lumberton, North Carolina. She has observed in her students, a disconection with their natural environment, such as being creatures of the indoors, and not having real experiences with nature, instead living through TV and video games.
The OLC is a place where children can experience nature. It is being centered around a stormwater retention pond on the Middle School campus, and in addition to the pond includes a "Shade Shelter" structure, a vegetable garden, and will soon include a weather station.
A broad coalition of community organization sponsors, businesses, and families of students have been assembled by Ms. Scott with the support of the school administration, led by Principal Bud Lanning. About $5,000 has been raised for the effort so far.
Ms. Scott is a former Group Study Exchange Team member to Mexico, sponsored by the Newport Rotary and Morehead City Noon Rotary Clubs. If you are interested in more information or want to become a sponsor, she can be reached at tscott@nms.carteret.k12.nc.us.
Ms. Scott was introduced by the Weekly Program Chair, Rtn. Manley Smith.
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