Photo: View of Muscongus Bay, Jeanne Lukas-Ross
Each summer, NVBA offers a full scholarship and transportation to “Sharing Nature: An Educator’s Week” at National Audubon Society’s Hog Island Camp in Maine. While there, educators learn interdisciplinary hands-on methods and approaches to environmental education while immersed in the natural world. This year, NVBA enabled Jeanne Lukas-Ross, Outdoor Learning Resource Teacher at Clearview Elementary in Herndon, to attend. She sent us the following report:
When I think of all the amazing experiences I have had during my life, my week at Audubon’s Hog Island camp is definitely one of the best! The camp was not only at a beautiful location, but the other campers and staff and the activities and learning we did together have added much inspiration to my life.
Campers from all over the US, who held varying roles in their organizations, brought a diversity of knowledge and experiences to share. Together we learned about the island and the plants and wildlife we observed as we hiked, boated, tide pooled and sat quietly. We discussed and collaborated on some larger global issues like climate change and bringing nature to diverse communities. There also was a focus on mindfulness and finding ways to bring peace to problems that seem insurmountable. I have come back with many things to incorporate into my teaching that I could not have obtained without this experience.
Osprey on nest, Jeanne Lukas-Ross
I like to photograph wildlife, though I am just learning, but I got some good practice taking pictures of osprey, ducks, eagles, seals, puffins, and other birds at Eastern Egg Rock. I also took photos of insects and the beautiful rocky geology.
My favorite activities were those led by a knowledgeable, veteran staffer who modeled ways to work with students that made nature accessible so that everyone felt successful and engaged. Though I am a Virginia Master Naturalist, the week at Hog Island made me realize how much more I have to learn and gave me great ideas to share with my students.
I really appreciate the opportunity that the Northern Virginia Bird Alliance made possible, and I will use everything I learned at Hog Island camp going forward. Thank you again for the amazing experience!