JTREE Works with Students at Oasis Elementary School
In April, JTREE ended the 2nd of 3 years for a special program brought to Oasis Elementary School TK-6th grade students through a *grant award. Students studied pollination processes, including hatching and releasing ladybugs and butterflies, planting native seeds and creating red worm compost during one school activity.
Special guest, Nic Garza, from 29 Palms Band of Mission Indians shared items from a walking museum to their classrooms as they learned about the Chemehuevi tribe. Students learned about the meaning behind symbols in the tribe’s flag (seal), were hands-on with plants, basketry and models of tortoise, raven and snakes, and even spoke some words of the native language.
Safety in the Desert presented a new activity in 2024 with a scavenger hunt. Teams of students learned about important items to bring along for safety while hiking in the desert placing what they believed was most important into their backpack. They traveled from station to station (about 10 in all) where a scenario was read aloud about a predicament. The team needed to decide what in their backpack would help them. This activity was wildly popular!
Solar printing returned again this year for grades 4th-6th with artist, Diana Shay-Diehl instructing. Each grade level’s project was enhanced giving students a new exploration into the power of the sun’s rays. 6th Grade students created banners of fabric solar prints using desert objects and even their bodies to create unique designs. These banners were used as a backdrop during the 6th grade students’ field trip where they performed to an audience of special guest about what they learned throughout the year.
Spring is in bloom, and students witnessed the magnificent changes in their garden oasis. During Living, Breathing and Learning in the Outdoors, students were taught techniques to reflect on the process and their contributions through reflective breathing exercises, poetry, drawings and discussion. Field Instructors led students in the classroom to learning how to use mindfulness and rhythm to find relaxation. After which they created tags labeled with things they are grateful for. Wrapping up their session, they spent time in the school garden oasis where they placed their tags on the fence making a gratitude wall.
Many thanks to the staff and students at Oasis Elementary School for making this such an enjoyable year!
Take a few minutes to appreciate the work of these students here in this slideshow!
*This program funded by the Outdoor Equity Grants Program, created through AB 209 and administered by California State Parks, Office of Grants and Local Services. The OEP program focus is to provide outdoor access to underserved communities including low-income urban and rural communities that expand their access to outdoor experiences at state parks and other public lands.
