Land Based Agricultural Program
Vision
At Dewberry School, we envision our Land-Based Program as a cornerstone of educational excellence and environmental stewardship. Our aim is to create a dynamic learning environment where students are immersed in the natural world, fostering a profound connection with the land, indigenous knowledge, and holistic development. We aspire to develop well-rounded, empathetic, and globally aware citizens who are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to lead and innovate in a rapidly changing world.
Core Elements of Our Vision:
Environmental Stewardship:
We seek to cultivate a deep respect and responsibility for the environment in our students. Through hands-on learning experiences, students will develop an understanding of ecological principles, sustainability, and the importance of protecting our planet for future generations.
Cultural Heritage:
Our program honors and integrates indigenous knowledge and perspectives, providing students with a rich, inclusive education that respects and values cultural diversity. By engaging with traditional ecological knowledge and practices, students will gain a broader understanding of the world and their place within it.
Holistic Development:
We believe in nurturing the whole child—academically, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Our Land-Based Program offers a balanced approach to education that promotes personal growth, resilience, teamwork, and leadership through activities that connect students with nature and community.
Real-World Learning:
Our students will engage in meaningful, real-world projects that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. This experiential learning approach prepares students to tackle contemporary challenges with innovative solutions, enhancing their critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.
Community Connection:
We aim to foster a strong sense of community within our school and beyond. By involving students in community-based projects and initiatives, we encourage a sense of belonging and the importance of contributing positively to society.
Academic Excellence:
Our Land-Based Program is designed to enhance academic engagement and success by making learning relevant and engaging. By integrating land-based education with Alberta’s Programs of Study, we provide contextually rich experiences that enhance comprehension and retention across various subjects.
Long-Term Goals:
To become a model of innovative, environmentally conscious education that inspires other schools and communities.
To continuously evolve our program based on feedback, research, and best practices in education and environmental stewardship.
To build lasting partnerships with indigenous communities, environmental organizations, and other stakeholders to enrich our students’ learning experiences and support their holistic development.
Commitment to Sustainability:
We are dedicated to ensuring the sustainability of our program through thoughtful planning, resource management, and ongoing evaluation. Our long-term vision includes expanding the program to other grade levels and integrating it seamlessly with the high school curriculum, ensuring a cohesive and continuous learning journey for our students.
By embodying these principles, Dewberry School’s Land-Based Program will not only enhance educational outcomes but also empower our students to become conscientious leaders and stewards of the environment, ready to make a positive impact on the world.
Action
1. Program Development and Curriculum Integration:
Objective:
Develop a comprehensive curriculum that seamlessly integrates land-based learning with Alberta’s Programs of Study for grades 7 through 9.
Actions:
Curriculum Design:
Collaborate with educators to design lesson plans and projects that incorporate environmental stewardship, cultural heritage, and holistic development into subjects such as English, Social Studies, Science, Mathematics, Physical Education, and Health.
Ensure alignment with provincial educational standards and outcomes.
Resource Compilation:
Gather and develop educational materials, including books, digital resources, and hands-on learning tools.
Create a repository of indigenous knowledge and practices to be integrated into the curriculum.
Professional Development:
Conduct training sessions for teachers to familiarize them with the principles and practices of land-based education.
Offer ongoing professional development opportunities to ensure teachers are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills.
2. Infrastructure and Facilities:
Objective:
Establish the necessary infrastructure and facilities to support land-based learning activities.
Actions:
Site Development:
Identify and prepare outdoor learning spaces, including gardens, greenhouses, and natural areas for exploration and study.
Develop physical structures such as a chicken coop, greenhouse, and shelters for outdoor classes.
Resource Allocation:
Secure funding and resources through grants, community partnerships, and fundraising initiatives.
Purchase necessary equipment and materials for outdoor learning activities. For context, we have a school bus being donated to our school for the purpose of being shelled out and converted to a fully operational greenhouse. We are intending to mount solar panels to the roof and create a self powered environment that runs on zero emissions.
3. Community and Indigenous Engagement:
Objective:
Foster strong relationships with the local community and indigenous groups to enrich the educational experience.
Actions:
Partnership Building:
Establish partnerships with local indigenous communities to incorporate traditional ecological knowledge and practices.
Engage community members and local experts to participate in the program as guest speakers and mentors.
Community Involvement:
Organize community events such as open houses, workshops, and volunteer days to involve parents and community members in the program.
Encourage students to participate in community service projects related to environmental stewardship and cultural heritage.
4. Student Engagement and Learning Experiences:
Objective:
Provide students with meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that foster a connection with the land and promote holistic development.
Actions:
Experiential Learning:
Plan and implement a variety of outdoor activities, such as gardening, environmental monitoring, land stewardship projects, and traditional crafts.
Integrate interdisciplinary projects that require students to apply their learning in real-world contexts.
Assessment and Evaluation:
Develop authentic assessment methods that capture students’ growth and learning through projects, portfolios, and presentations.
Regularly evaluate the program’s impact on student engagement, academic performance, and personal development.
5. Sustainability and Future Directions:
Objective:
Ensure the long-term sustainability of the Land-Based Program and its continuous improvement.
Actions:
Ongoing Evaluation:
Implement a system for regular feedback and evaluation from students, teachers, and community members.
Use evaluation data to make informed adjustments and improvements to the program.
Expansion Plans:
Explore opportunities to expand the program to other grade levels and incorporate it into the high school curriculum.
Develop a long-term vision for the program’s growth and sustainability, including securing stable funding sources and building lasting community partnerships.
By following this action plan, Dewberry School will successfully implement a Land-Based Program that not only enhances academic outcomes but also nurtures well-rounded, environmentally conscious, and culturally aware students.
Reflection & Celebration
Reflection:
Objective:
To continuously reflect on and evaluate the Land-Based Program’s effectiveness, impact, and areas for improvement.
Actions:
Regular Feedback Collection:
Conduct surveys and focus groups with students, teachers, and community members to gather feedback on their experiences and insights.
Implement reflection sessions at the end of each term where students and teachers can share their learnings and suggest improvements.
Documentation and Analysis:
Maintain detailed records of student progress, project outcomes, and program activities.
Analyze data collected from assessments, feedback, and reflections to identify strengths and areas for growth.
Annual Review:
Organize an annual review meeting with all stakeholders to discuss the program’s achievements, challenges, and future directions.
Use the insights gained from the review to update and refine the curriculum, teaching methods, and program structure.
Student Portfolios:
Encourage students to create portfolios that document their projects, reflections, and learning experiences throughout the program.
Use these portfolios as a tool for both self-assessment and showcasing student achievements.
Celebration:
Objective:
To recognize and celebrate the successes, milestones, and contributions of students, teachers, and the community in the Land-Based Program.
Actions:
Showcase Events:
Organize biannual showcase events where students can present their projects, share their learning experiences, and celebrate their achievements with the school and wider community.
Include exhibitions, demonstrations, and performances that highlight the diverse aspects of the program, such as environmental projects, cultural heritage activities, and student-led initiatives.
Awards and Recognitions:
Establish awards and recognitions to honor outstanding student achievements, innovative projects, and significant contributions by teachers and community members.
Include categories such as Environmental Stewardship, Cultural Leadership, and Innovation in Education.
Community Celebrations:
Host community gatherings such as harvest festivals, cultural days, and environmental fairs to celebrate the program’s impact and foster a sense of community.
Invite community members, parents, and local leaders to participate in these events, strengthening the bond between the school and the wider community.
Publications and Media:
Publish newsletters, blog posts, and social media updates that highlight the program’s milestones, success stories, and upcoming events.
Create a yearbook or digital archive that documents the program’s journey, showcasing student work, reflections, and memorable moments.
By incorporating regular reflection and celebration into the Land-Based Program, Dewberry School can ensure ongoing improvement, foster a sense of pride and accomplishment, and build a vibrant, supportive community dedicated to educational excellence and environmental stewardship.