First time parents are always welcome
The Big Backyard Program is a series of nature walks on school property and adjacent lands that enhances the existing science and social studies curriculum in each grade.
Observation, learning to ask good questions, problem solving, and respect for the natural environment are emphasized throughout the program.
The program relies on parent volunteers to lead small groups of students on 1-3 of these walks during the year and during school hours. At Fiske Room Parents organize the class walks for the year. Each walk is held during school hours and takes only 30-45 minutes. If you are interested in the outdoors or simply enjoy participating in your children's education why not volunteer to become a Walk Leader? If you are interested please contact your room parent or one of the Big Back Yard coordinators, below.
Goals of Environmental Education
To enable children to experience, appreciate and begin to understand the natural
world and its rhythms and cycles. It is NOT a collection of facts to be memorized, but an
attitude toward the living and non-living world and themselves as learners.
Walks are consistent with grade level science curriculum. And they provide an
active, hands-on learning. Walks provide chances for children to explore, discover, be
curious and sharpen observation skills. It empowers children to realize that they can
learn from their own experiences. They don’t always have to be taught by someone else.
No previous experience is necessary.
- Judy Craver, Kindergarten coordinator
- Sarah Kaufman, 1st and 5th grade coordinator
- Trish Kennealy, 2nd grade coordinator
- Abby Janes, 3rd-4th grade coordinator
Use the links on the left to find the walk guides and other documents for each walk. Every document is in PDF format and you will need Acrobat Reader to access them. You may then print them off or simply review them online as you wish.
Printed copies of all walks are available in the BBY cabinet in the 1st grade hallway.
Welcome to Fiske's Big Backyard!