Central to a Blue Oak School education is a student’s understanding of the natural environment and a developing sense of stewardship for the planet.
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The theme of freedom and responsibility that permeates so much of school life has obvious implications for environmental education. An engaged understanding of community implies responsibility for both neighborhood and worldwide environmental issues. An understanding of sustainability means responsibility over time; that current needs should not use all of the earth’s natural resources and thus leave none for future generations.
In the spirit of good teaching, students are led to examine the current data and given the tools and opportunity to make an environmental difference. Age-appropriate science units on ecosystems, animal and human habitats, food webs, water use, global warming, the tragedy of the commons and more give students a common vocabulary and understanding of problems facing mankind. Programs such as waste-free lunches; an audit of environmental practices in school operations, including the Lower School’s geothermal heating system; stream restorations and partnerships with the Bay Institute’s STRAW project (Students and Teachers are Restoring a Watershed); the student-driven Middle School recycling program and annual Campus Days, give students a chance to make an impact and participate in solutions to environmental issues. Field trips to Connolly Ranch, Catalina Island, Yosemite National Park and others, help to further enhance students’ environmental understanding.