Funds will support creation of outdoor learning lab at Shamrock Springs
The Westfield Education Foundation (WEF) was the recipient of a $15,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation to support the building of a wetland project housed at Shamrock Springs Elementary School.
Called the Shamrock Outdoor Learning Lab, the seven-acre plot of wetland is being transformed into an educational green space to help students and community members develop positive relationships with the environment, other people and ourselves through interaction with nature.
Shamrock Springs Principal Robb Hedges touts the importance of hands-on outdoor education.
Shamrock Springs Elementary School Principal Robb Hedges gives Duke Energy Government & Community Relations Manager Mark LaBarr and a couple of students a tour of the future site of the Shamrock Outdoor Learning Lab. (Photo provided by Westfield Washington Schools)
“Studies show students who learn outdoors develop a sense of self, independence, confidence, creativity, decision-making and problem-solving skills, empathy towards others, motor skills, self-discipline, and initiative,” Hedges said. “Obviously, these are things we want to develop in our Rocks and in our community, so we are glad that the Duke Energy Foundation is helping turn our vision into a reality.”
The greenspace currently includes a pond, wetland animals, prairie grass, flowers, a trail and recently planted sapling trees. A boardwalk is currently being constructed on the west side of the pond and is scheduled for completion this coming spring. With the grant, the foundation will purchase floating islands that will be located near the boardwalk.
Duke Energy Foundation Manager Kim Vogelgesang said she is excited for the lasting impact this project will have on the local community.
Shamrock Springs Elementary School Principal Robb Hedges (right) gives Duke Energy Government & Community Relations Manager Mark LaBarr a tour of the future site of the Shamrock Outdoor Learning Lab. (Photo provided by Westfield Washington Schools)
“We are pleased to support Westfield Washington Schools with their Shamrock Outdoor Learning Lab,” Vogelgesang said. “This will serve the community for generations by enriching the development of the green space and managing the watershed through wetland creation and habitat restoration.”
About the Westfield Education Foundation
The mission of the Westfield Education Foundation is to empower and invest in our students, teachers, and staff. To date, The Foundation has given out more than $2 million in scholarships and grants to provide opportunities to help create lifelong learners. For more information, please visit wwswef.org.