The goal of the Watershed Program is to “provide an enriched educational environment where students can experience nature, hands-on science, and learn the interconnectedness of life in the watershed.” The watershed curriculum covers grades K- 6th and incorporates both “indoor” or classroom-based lessons and “outdoor” or field-based lessons in our watershed. Wilder Elementary is fortunate to have this unique program that increases our students’ scientific knowledge along with environmental awareness and sensitivity.
Watershed instruction is delivered by volunteers two to three times per year depending on the grade level. Most grades receive both indoor and outdoor lessons in the fall and spring; first graders receive lessons in the winter and spring. The indoor, classroom-based lesson takes place first. This introduces the concepts to the students and gives them practice to prepare for the outdoor lesson. The outdoor lesson follows within one-to-two weeks of the indoor instruction; this facilitates learning retention. The students conduct this lesson in the watershed providing them with the ability to experience hands-on learning in nature and awareness and respect for the environment.