CARROLLTON, GA — As a recipient of the Georgia Outdoor Learning Demonstration (GOLD) grant, Carrollton Elementary School built an observation deck and boardwalk to provide STEM classes safe access to Buffalo Creek, where students can apply their knowledge to life outside of the classroom.
The project is a result of collaboration between the Carrollton City Schools System, the University of West Georgia, and Scott Britton of C.S.Britton, Inc., a local expert in natural stream restoration. Together, they have developed lessons that create meaningful learning experiences at Buffalo Creek for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Many of the school system’s STEM teachers have furthered their knowledge of stream restoration through professional development opportunities that enhance their classroom instruction.
The observation deck is located near the school’s outdoor classroom and is strategically positioned for easy access to the building. The deck is large enough to accommodate two classes at once and includes a built-in ledge for students to use as a writing surface.
CES STEM teachers Ann Cox and Joseph Benefield emphasize the importance of teaching students to understand the world around them.
“Buffalo Creek serves as a central focus for many of our activities,” said Cox, whose doctoral research is anchored in this topic. “To nurture respect for our environment, it is essential that students have direct experiences with nature, making it familiar and meaningful to them.”
CES provides STEM education to all students to foster curiosity and exploration of their natural surroundings. Benefield and Cox develop lessons focusing on sustainability and connecting students to their local environment.
In the fall, students went on nature walks to identify tree species and practice nature journaling. This spring, students will dig deeper into their understanding and conduct a more in-depth creek observation lesson, testing water quality and using nets to collect and study macroinvertebrates.
CES STEM teachers Ann Cox and Joseph Benefield teach a third-grade class at the observation deck funded by the GOLD grant.