Nature's Classroom

Local students learn about science and stewardship in Central Park

For 15 years, the first graders at the Ethical Culture School have been raising money for the Central Park Conservancy.  Culminating a year of Park study, the first grade holds a flower and plant sale to raise money for the Conservancy’s Tree Trust program.  During the school year, students sketch trees, plants, bridges, and buildings in preparation for a mural they will paint of their experiences in the Children's District in Central Park.  The mural forms the backdrop for their block corner work all year. One of these murals, from 2005, is currently on display at the Chess & Checkers House Visitor Center, located mid-Park at 64th Street.

Over the course of the Central Park study, the children interview Park workers and volunteers, and visit all corners of the Park mapping routes, examining playgrounds, studying plants, birds and habitats, and enjoying the wonders the Park has to offer.  Sometimes the students make models of the Park, or design parks of their own.  Conservancy volunteers visit the school to present a slideshow that impresses upon the children how important it is that, as Park users, they become its steward. 

The children study nature in the Park as well, making many trips there with their science teacher.  This past fall, they began doing tree research.  In early spring, their teacher will help them plant the seeds that they will tend and grow into the plants they sell for the annual gift to the Conservancy.

"Central Park is a perfect place for young children to begin social studies, especially as it is directly across the street from our school," says first-grade teacher Gail McClurg.  "This Park is here because our forebears planned for the future, and wanted to bequest a healthy and beautiful environment for others.  This is a gift we want our students to appreciate, and an example we need to follow today and hope that they will emulate in the future."

The plant and flower sale is one way Ethical's first graders learn how to contribute to the Park's maintenance and improvement.  "Our school's founder wanted our graduates to learn how they could improve and benefit society.  This curriculum gives us a wonderful opportunity to do just that," notes McClurg.

“The Women’s Committee Tree Trust will plant a tree this spring in honor of the Ethical Culture Fieldston School,” said Stephanie Donley Jackson, Development Manager, Central Park Conservancy Tree Trust.

For more information about how your school can use Central Park as a classroom, please visit our education pages.