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A LETTER TO STUDENTS
Dear Student,
You’ll be coming soon to the Outdoor
Education Center for a field trip, which
will last part of a week instead of just
part of a day. You’re probably wondering
just what to expect, and whether you’ll
have a good time – We’ll try to answer some
of your questions here.
We are an outdoor classroom with three cabins, a main
lodge, a clinic for injured hawks and owls, a pioneer log
cabin, and several other special buildings. All of this is
tucked into one corner of Glen Helen, a 1,000-acre forest,
where there are over 25 miles of trails, more than you can
possibly cover in a few days, but filled with surprises at
every turn. There are raccoons, opossums, deer, and
groundhogs, if you know where to look, and the two streams
are filled with crayfish and minnows, plus lots of other
interesting critters you’ll learn more about while you’re
here.
To make the most of your stay with us, we need your help.
It can be the best week of your life if you will observe
the rules of the Glen and the Outdoor Education Center, be
thoughtful of others, and keep your
eyes open and your mind tuned to what
you may see and do. Be ready for
everything and willing to try new
things. You’ll learn what Killer
Statements and Actions are and why we
think it is so important to stamp them
out. You’ll go on a Night Hike and
learn what it might be like to be a
nocturnal animal. You’ll learn more
about your friends and more about yourself. And finally,
you’ll learn more about plants and animals and how you can
help preserve the earth.
We look forward to meeting you, to learning with you, and
to having exciting adventures together.
Now for some of those questions…
Why is there an Outdoor Education Center?
We need to understand how we fit into the natural environment. This
environment – the air, water, plants, soil and wildlife – is important for our
survival! It is easier to appreciate these things when you are out there in the
middle of them.
Will we learn stuff at the Outdoor Education Center?
Sure we will. We’ll be learning more about math, social studies, science, art and
language arts while exploring a 1,000-acre outdoor laboratory. But we think this
is fun and we think you will too. We’ll play some games and learn about animals
and trees while we play.
Who will teach us?
You will do some teaching, your classroom teacher may do some, but mostly
your leaders will be some very special teacher-naturalists who love the Glen and
enjoy working with students.
How can I help to make my visit the very best?
1. Carefully study the materials your teacher provides about the Outdoor
Education Center
2. Come prepared for those wet and/or cold days with adequate clothing.
3. Bring your curiosity.
4. Be respectful to all – fellow students, teachers, naturalist, plants and animals.
Are they strict at the Outdoor Education Center?
Unless your words or actions hurt others, you will see what fun you can have
when people cooperate and work together. On occasion, students who have
been unable to obey the rules have been returned to school.
What happens if one of us gets sick, gets homesick, or needs daily medication?
If you get sick or injured, we’ll call your parents and see that you get medical
help. If you get homesick, we’ll help you get over it. If you regularly need
medicine from home, your teacher will give it to you.
Will we have some free time?
Yes, a little before and after each meal, during a mid-afternoon break and
possibly just before lights out at night. Bring along a good book or a quiet game
to use in the cabin for those times.
May we bring gum or food to the Outdoor Education Center?
Gum is not allowed. Food may not be brought into the cabins because it attracts
mice and squirrels. Your class may want to bring an evening snack which can be
stored in our kitchen.
Can parents visit me at the Center?
Not during your stay with us. Bring them back afterward, though and you be the
naturalist for them! Park at Trailside Museum where trail maps are available.
Do I need money at the Center?
Only if you want to buy something from our Campstore, and then only bring the
exact amount needed, in cash.
What should I take with me?
Included in this packet is a suggested list of clothing and equipment you will
need.
Will I really enjoy myself there?
Do birds fly?
