Open your students eyes...


I grew up in southern California going to the beach every week of the summer. When we were not basking in the sun or splashing in the water, I was participating in some outdoor activity. Whether I was playing an organized sport, building forts in the backyard, or camping with my family I was either forced or wanted to be outside.

Each summer we would pack our minivan and head to Yosemite National Park. It was our happy place. We would set up tents, hike, swim, bike and enjoy the beauty the park had to offer. It showed me what the world was about and allowed me the opportunity to appreciate the outdoors and its beauty.

As I walk around the lunch room and I talk with students about the upcoming 5th grade outdoor education camp, I am surprised that this will be the first time for many that they will go for a hike. Being an avid hiker with my own kids, I am always surprised to hear that most families don't do this. Each time I hear about never being exposed to the outdoors, it proves my point even more. We need to open our students eyes to the things they are not exposed to in their homes, communities, and families.

Whether it is technology or outdoor education, it is our duty to provide the opportunity for students to have their eyes opened to things that can change their lives forever. Take your passion and share with your students. Not only does it create a stronger teacher/student connection, it opens students eyes to things they might not have ever been exposed to.

Be the one that shares your own experiences with your students to build a culture of willingness to try new things.

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