If you look at the aerial view of our synagogue/school property, you can see an approximately 4 acre space. About one acre is the building itself, and one acre is the circular parking lot and courtyard in front of the building. That leaves 2 acres of beautiful wooded area for us to explore and learn from while still being on our property. As you have probably heard, we have been going into those woods with students with more educational intention lately. Our students have engaged in pictorial scavenger hunts, walked the newly defined “MWJDS Nature Trail,” studied flora as spring begins bursting through the soil and branches, and staked out the southern boundary of our property.
Ahead of us, in the coming weeks and months, some students will begin a “problem-based unit” where they will attempt to improve a somewhat steep embankment on the trail by constructing a natural set of steps or stairs. They will research models, design, plan with budgeting, and ultimately build the solution prior to the end of this school year. Others will set up natural features areas on the trail and every child will get to pick their “Makom kavuah,” or their own special spot in the woods for mindfulness and reflection. This is all an enhancement, not a replacement of the great things we are already doing with children each week in school. Happy spring!
Shabbat Shalom,
Brian Cohen, Head of School
April 9, 2021 ~ 27 Nisan 5781