By this time, many of you will have made it out into the woods with your Kindergartner or first grader. I hope that your first day went well and that you had as much fun as my daughter's class did!
Your time, energy, and input as a parent is critical to the success of this program. With that in mind, we would like to schedule two meetings - one in the fall (mid-November) and one in the spring - to share experiences, learn from each other, iron out bumps in the road (yes, there will be many), and make recommendations that will improve the program.
In addition, we would like to invite you to participate anyone who is interested in developing the program to participate in other ways as well. Below are some options that the advisory team discussed:
1. Events - we would like to plan 2-3 events per year - each with multiple goals - community-building, education, and fundraising. Last year, we had a viewing & discussion of the movie, "Mother Nature's Child" at the Savoy, a year-end celebration & plant sale with the Dave Keller Band, and a garage sale. We;ve also talked about a winter celebration with hot cider and perhaps a moonlit snow-shoe hike. So, if you have some good ideas - let's hear 'em. If you like to organize and run events - then step right up, we need your help.
2. Grant Writing - I have two kind souls pegged for this, but if anyone else wants to be involved in the future, let me know.
3. Fundraising Committee - Really, number 1 and 2 fit under fundraising. With this in mind, it would probably make sense to meet periodically to discuss fundraising goals and ideas.
4. Advisory Committee Input - If you have an interest in helping us mold this program, at a strategic level (eg - determining if/how we can expand into 2nd grade), please be in touch.
5.-100. Other ideas
We have an immediate opportunity for a few people to help out with the Montpelier Home Tour on October 15th. Through a very generous offer, we will be able to use this event to raise money for the Nature Adventure Program. Please contact first grade teacher Susan Koch at susank@mpsvt.org, if you have a little time on October 15th.
I look forward to seeing everyone in November or around the school.
I look forward to seeing everyone in November or around the school.
Laury Saligman
Parent Coordinator for NAP
