RNC and CSD Scientist in Residence (SIR) Program Model
The SIR Theory of Change believes by integrating experimental, outdoor, hands-on learning experiences guided by a scientist in residence into schools, children will benefit through enhance learning and increased emotional health; teachers and schools will benefit through strengthened curricula and decreased student behavioral issues; and the community will benefit from the strengthened educational system.
Riveredge Student Impact Plan | Goals
- Curriculum | Develop an organizational method to warehouse Inside/Out lessons and other resources for teachers.
- Community Education | Create a parent and community (school and broader community) educational network to provide ongoing learning opportunities around environmental education topics.
- Integration | Continue fostering a partnership with classroom teachers at all levels, so that indoor lessons can be moved outside.
There is a growing body of research that shows how getting students outdoors improves their attention, academics, stress levels, health, and more. That's why in 2016, Riveredge Nature Center partnered with the Cedarburg School District to implement the Scientist in Residence Partnership with the goal of working alongside teachers to integrate more outdoor learning into the everyday school day. Riveredge's SIR program theory of change states that in five years time, we see students in CSD healthier, happier, more creative, and inspired by the world around them. We witness schools that do not have to make the choice between less recess and more reading time because teachers have learned ways of transforming their local outdoor spaces into classrooms for learning.
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