Written by Joshua Sweet
Student Conservation Association
John Muir wrote that “in every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.” But what about those who reside in a classroom rather than in nature?
ROOSEVELT, ARIZONA – While participating in an internship with the Student Conservation Association I have been given many outstanding opportunities. The most noteworthy task I have been charged with during my internship is to provide outreach programs at a neighboring elementary school. I have gained insight into historical interpretation and outdoor education, in addition to being provided with a gateway into working with the National Park Service. This has granted me with knowledge that will positively build upon my past experiences.
Each week during a six week session the park rangers from Tonto National Monument visit Dr. Charles A. Bejarano Elementary School in Miami, Arizona. We provide the three fourth grade classes with valuable information pertaining to environmental and outdoor themes. Topics will range from local geology and wildlife to ancient Native American culture and architecture. This outreach curriculum contributes to the already vibrant programming provided by the staff at the monument including night hikes, photography tours, heritage days, and Junior Park Ranger activities.
My first program with the students focused entirely on aspects of outdoor survival and the importance of being prepared while participating in various outdoor pursuits. We covered essential overnight and day pack items that relate to navigation, signaling, shelter construction, fire, water, food, and first aid. Students participated in hands-on learning experiences during which they were able to use a compass, signaling mirror, and a crank flashlight. In addition, the fourth graders witnessed demonstrations on how to tell direction using only shadows on the ground, and how to use a flint stick to ignite a fire.
The focal point of the next lesson was snakes of the desert. During this program I was able to observe interagency cooperation as the U.S. Forest Service in Tonto Basin allowed me to borrow their resident king snake to give the classes a more vivid picture of this remarkable reptile. The fourth graders learned all about the life of a desert king snake during the hour long assembly. By the end they were curious to learn more about other desert reptiles, including the infamous gila monster.
In the coming weeks we will visit the classes for two more presentations based on the archaeology of Tonto National Monument. Outreach programs such as those we have provided at Dr. Charles A. Bejarano Elementary School are a perfect example of how agencies such as the National Park Service can stretch the boundaries of a park. By continuing these programs the park rangers have the ability to reach young children and educate them on principles of environmental responsibility and preservation for the enjoyment of current and future generations.
Since joining the staff at Tonto National Monument in November, I have had many exciting assignments that range from performing backcountry maintenance with law enforcement to leading three-mile hikes to a prehistoric cave dwelling. Moreover, I have developed two presentations, focusing on subjects of my choice, for the fourth grade classes. These programs are great models of how the National Park Service can expand educational experiences beyond park boundaries.
