Earth Day at École Robert Browning
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This article was published 06/05/2019 (2405 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Earth Day is celebrated on April 22. It is a day meant to raise awareness of environmental issues impacting the planet. Over one billion people participate in activities and events that encourage and support a healthier planet.
I had the privilege of celebrating Earth Day at École Robert Browning, where staff and students were involved in a whole day of activities and presentations.
I was the guest of Mme. Bergen and her Grade 1 class. We had the opportunity to participate in a workshop on air quality presented by Green Action Centre, in which the students learned about the importance of clean air and the detrimental effects of pollution. They were also able to measure the air quality of their playground.
I am happy to report that their readings indicated that there is very good air quality in the community.
Mme. Bergen’s class also attended an indoor planetarium, Star Dome, to learn about the night sky, constellations, and myths and legends inspired from First Nations’ stories.
The portable theatre consists of a large dome and digital multimedia computer system that surrounds you with a spectacular simulation of the sky. Presenter Darren Townsley had us mesmerized throughout the presentation. When I entered the dome, which was set up in the gymnasium, I did not anticipate that I would be watching the sun set, the moon rise, and a meteor shower while listening to the stories of the constellations.
I was also very fortunate to attend a presentation on insects given by graduate students from the University of Manitoba, entomology department. The lecture was very informative but it was the hands-on experience that gave us the “wow factor.”
It is not everyday at school that students have the opportunity to hold a Madagascar hissing cockroach or a walkingstick insect, or spot the queen bee in a beehive.
École Robert Browning’s celebration of Earth Day was a very comprehensive and enjoyable day of learning. The faculty and students are knowledgeable and dedicated to keeping their community healthy, clean, and safe. It is evident that compassion and respect for the environment is an important value for this school.
These young students should be proud and recognized for the hard work they are doing to make sure our planet prospers.
Thank you so much to Mme. Bergen and her class for sharing this day with me.
Best school day ever!
Sue Schumacher is a community correspondent for Westwood.