Prairie Point’s Outdoor Education Program Celebrates 50 Years

Prairie Point Middle School is celebrating 50 years of providing an Outdoor Education Environmental Education Program. The outdoor experience takes place at Camp IO-DE-SECA in Solon and is for all Prairie seventh graders. This year's Outdoor Education Program runs the week of May 10-May 14.

The camp teaching staff and 50 eighth-grade student counselors strive to achieve many educational goals during the week. These goals include contributing to the development of outdoor knowledge and skills, developing an awareness of and appreciation for the elements and resources of the natural world, instilling an appreciation of responsible stewardship of our natural resources, promoting an understanding and acceptance of self and others and while enriching environmental experiences.

The Outdoor Education Environmental Program was started by a small group of teachers who wanted to expose middle school students to the great outdoors. The program offers students opportunities for learning experiences in a natural environment that are both educational and enjoyable for all. During the day, students take part in environmental education classes and during the evening students are brought together for recreational activities and entertainment conducted by the teaching staff.

“The Outdoor Environmental Education program is an experience that many 7th grade students look forward to each year,” said 7th grade science teacher Chuck Hardin. “When students leave the middle school they have a very good understanding of our natural resources. Many have commented that this program has been one of the most memorable and enjoyable times during their middle school years.”

This year's camp teaching staff hopes to make the 50th anniversary unforgettable for all.