Capitol Hill Washington, DC on July 17, 2013 a miracle occurred on Capitol Hill. Inside the United States capitol, members from both political parties came together as one team in support of America’s children. Legislation introducing stronger and far reaching environmental education programs has been assigned the title of: No Child Left Inside Act. The goal and purpose is to equate every student with the outdoors and our environmental relationships that will foster better awareness, literacy and understanding of our environmental challenges. Also this will encourage partnerships between schools, colleges, public parks, and organizations to implement a diverse curricula with development outreach for experiential learning.
Words were spoken from Capitol Hill by both parties that echoed the greatness of America from years gone by. Words such as:
“By investing in education that will grow the next generation of innovators, scientists and environmental stewards, we will prepare our workforce of the future to meet the many economic, environmental, and energy-related challenges our country is facing.” - Congressman Sarbanes.
“To prepare American students to compete in the 21st century global economy, this bill uses an innovative approach to teaching science and bringing the benefits of outdoor activity to more children. Our bill promotes hands-on learning and an integrated curriculum, while bolstering important science, technology, engineering and math education programs.” - Senator Kirk.
We have known for years that studies show outside activities and hands-on learning contribute greatly to higher achievement levels in all subjects, including health, for all students. However, the facts of today show children are spending far less time outdoors compared to students of yesteryear. Especially with today's video games and computer electronics. Additionally, schools delete environmental programs and field trips first when faced with budget cuts.
“By investing in education that will grow the next generation of innovators, scientists and environmental stewards, we will prepare our workforce of the future to meet the many economic, environmental, and energy-related challenges our country is facing.” - Congressman Sarbanes.
“To prepare American students to compete in the 21st century global economy, this bill uses an innovative approach to teaching science and bringing the benefits of outdoor activity to more children. Our bill promotes hands-on learning and an integrated curriculum, while bolstering important science, technology, engineering and math education programs.” - Senator Kirk.
We have known for years that studies show outside activities and hands-on learning contribute greatly to higher achievement levels in all subjects, including health, for all students. However, the facts of today show children are spending far less time outdoors compared to students of yesteryear. Especially with today's video games and computer electronics. Additionally, schools delete environmental programs and field trips first when faced with budget cuts.
Outdoor Ed Teaching Team Work Upon the release of information about the No Child Left Inside Act, I received insight from Professor Bill Nieter, Director of Environmental Studies at St. John’s University who simply stated the truth. “I love the idea that this is really bipartisan and that they are looking at it as an investment in children and their knowledge about the environment. Some children are blessed with advantages that give them exposure to nature and their lives are all the better for it. Many other children are in urban settings and don’t have the opportunity for nature experiences and for environmental education and are truly disadvantaged in the deepest sense of the word.”
As we proclaim this accomplishment as excellent bipartisan work, I will evaluate this as follows: People listened to each other, communicated well, worked together as one team to solve a serious problem. Team Work on Capitol Hill, what miracle will happen next? Yes, we are all on the same team.
Bill Lauto, GTG
As we proclaim this accomplishment as excellent bipartisan work, I will evaluate this as follows: People listened to each other, communicated well, worked together as one team to solve a serious problem. Team Work on Capitol Hill, what miracle will happen next? Yes, we are all on the same team.
Bill Lauto, GTG
