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Glenwood Springs High School science instructor Scott Nykerk spent five years as an aquatic biologist for the DOW and worked in the Solomon Islands for three years with the Peace Corps
Glenwood Springs High School science instructor Scott Nykerk spent five years as an aquatic biologist for the DOW and worked in the Solomon Islands for three years with the Peace Corps
Environmental expertise among teachers
The RFSD is often blessed with teachers with strong backgrounds in outdoor education and environmental sciences.
Glenwood Springs High School science instructor Scott Nykerk spent five years as an aquatic biologist for the DOW and worked in the Solomon Islands for three years with the Peace Corps. Nykerk created a new ecology and field biology course at the high school. His students learn field sampling techniques and study local ecosystems to learn about concepts such as population dynamics.
At the RFSD’s own riverfront environmental education center, donated to the district by a local family, classes can work on everything from listening skills to team-building activities.
"The Re-1 outdoor ed site is a great way to spend time with your students on a different level than in your school classroom. I’ve already noticed a deeper sense of camaraderie, inclusion and interaction among the students," noted Carbondale Elementary School third-grade teacher Andrea Chacos.
Local educators say every level of young learner can benefit in many ways from outdoor education programs, from increased interest in physical fitness to literacy. Students at Bridges High School are often inspired to read about their outdoor adventures in rock climbing, backpacking and whitewater rafting.
"Many of them remark that it’s the first time they were excited about reading because they’re reading things that are interesting to them and applicable to their lives," Bridges teacher Michael Schneiter said.
Teachers say they hope their outdoor education offerings will spark students’ interest in active learning and foster a lifelong respect and stewardship of the environment and the Roaring Fork Valley.