Yes! Yes, they can. And here's how they did it...
This spring 2nd grade creative learners partnered with Restore the Earth Foundation and The Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum to create habitat solutions for endangered animals. Learners worked in teams to research five animals that are threatened by habitat loss specifically in Terrebonne Parish, where Restore the Earth Foundation is working to restore a bald cypress forest at the Pointe-aux-Chenes Wildlife Management Area.
Included in the team's research was a field study adventure to the wetlands at Pointe-aux-Chenes to meet some of the endangered species and see first hand how the animal's habitats are diminishing at an alarming rate.
This spring 2nd grade creative learners partnered with Restore the Earth Foundation and The Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum to create habitat solutions for endangered animals. Learners worked in teams to research five animals that are threatened by habitat loss specifically in Terrebonne Parish, where Restore the Earth Foundation is working to restore a bald cypress forest at the Pointe-aux-Chenes Wildlife Management Area.
Included in the team's research was a field study adventure to the wetlands at Pointe-aux-Chenes to meet some of the endangered species and see first hand how the animal's habitats are diminishing at an alarming rate.
Back in the classroom, the teams used recycled materials to design habitat solutions for the Diamondback Terrapins, the Red Wolves (almost extinct!), the Rosette Spoonbills, the Peregrine Falcons, and the West Indian Manatees. Ms. Valorie, our amazing visual arts teaching artist, guided teams through the design thinking process.
Mrs. Rooney's class presented their designs at The Cooper Hewitt Design Fair in New Orleans on May 5th. In addition spreading the word about vanishing wetlands and endangered species through their habitat solutions, learners also made colorful planters out of recycled cans and sold their work at an art market with all proceeds benefiting Restore the Earth Foundation.
And that's how these caring 2nd graders are making a difference through their art.
"Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot,
Nothing is going to get better. It's not" -Dr. Seuss
Look and read on to learn more about our adventures, designs, and presentations, all in the name of helping our wetlands and endangered animals!