Michael R. White

Our capstone group is working with the CMSD school, Michael R. White, to make an integrated curriculum including health, science, and ecology. We are trying to match up subjects that the science teacher is teaching in the class and then show the kids real life examples and make a connection to health. We have been busing the 5th grade class out to the Case Farm for two farm visits this semester. The third and final farm visit is coming up in the middle of the month. The weather has been holding out so far, we haven't had any snow yet in Cleveland! I can't believe it has been in the mid 60s this week. The leaves are changing and it has been beautiful when the sun shines especially at the farm because there are so many trees.

I am excited for the last farm visit this semester. The first visit the kids were so excited to explore and learn. They learned a lot about ecosystems and the different foods and herbs. We went on a hike through the trails at the Farm and the kids were running around and excited to have our attention and explore the different trees, logs, leaves. One of my favorite parts was when the kids would come up to us and link arms and just want to talk. I really enjoyed being able to be there. I feel like the kids look up to us and want to learn about what we have to teach them. The kids were also able to see some wildlife they saw a salamander. They loved it, each person wanted to see the salamander. It was the first time a lot of the kids have seen one. I think that it is a great opportunity to have the ability to expose the kids to new experiences.

This integrated curriculum would not have been possible if we did not have the support of the Principal and Chris and Ana at the farm. We are lucky to be able to work as a team for a common goal. I feel like we have made a lot of partnerships and good rapport with Michael R. White.