ACRA, N.Y. — On October 21st students from the Windham-Ashland-Jewett (WAJ) school district were able to participate in the first of six programs with the school science club. For the 2021-22 school year, the club is focusing on birds and ornithology. The science club is organized by Deborah Valerio (k-6 STEM and ELA educator), and led by Anna Harrod-McGrew (4-H Natural Resource Educator for Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Columbia and Greene Counties).
The first program involved learning the basics of bird identification and birding as an activity. Students looked for signs of birds on the school grounds such as nests, feathers, etc. They practiced labeling the various parts of a bird and learned to identify common birds of the area. They finished the program learning to use binoculars and taking a short bird walk.
The WAJ Science Club would not be possible without the generous financial support of The Windham Foundation. Their support has enabled CCE of Columbia and Greene Counties 4-H Youth Development Program to create hands-on natural resources and environmental awareness programs, offering these elementary age students an exciting opportunity to learn about the natural world right in their backyard.
Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities. The programs provided by this organization are partially funded by monies received from the Counties of Columbia and Greene.
4-H is New York’s only youth development program directly connected to the technological advances and the latest research at Cornell University. 4-H participants learn leadership, citizenship and life skills through hands-on projects in three primary program areas: science and technology; healthy living; and citizenship. To find out more about 4-H and youth programs in Columbia and Greene Counties, contact us at 518-828-3346 or Columbiagreene@cornell.edu or visit our website, www.ccecolumbiagreene.org . You can also “Like” us on Facebook…Cornell Cooperative Extension of Columbia and Greene Counties.
–Cornell Cooperative Extension Columbia and Greene Counties
