A Brief Letter

To Whom It May Concern

I have observed and participated in delivery of outdoor education to both Stephanie Francella and Marnie McDonald’s kindergarten classes, and I feel comfortable in providing this brief letter endorsing their outdoor primary program.

The teaching and support staff (Trish) came to the facility independently three times. They planned their day(s) and gave their instruction outside, while I worked with another class from our board. I observed as both Stephanie and Marnie kept the students safe and on task. They were always dressed for the weather and worked independently. The students appeared to be happy and bouncing from one activity to the next. Their excitement for learning opportunities was motivating for me as an instructor.

I worked with the teaching and support staff and more importantly with the students on six occasions. I immersed the students in several learning activities and observed numerous positive behaviours. I watched as the students worked co-operatively and consistently to “task completion”. I listened as students talked about their creations to group members and to their classmates. I facilitated as students had to problem solve and investigate to complete some of their tasks.

The attribute that has me excited about outdoor primary education is “engaged learners”. The students were happy every time they walk off the bus to be here and they always want to know what they were going to be doing.

Regards,

Jim Pedetella

Elementary Program Lead Teacher at St. Kateri Outdoor Learning Centre