While most people may look at today as just the halfway point in the week, April 22 actually marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, an annual celebration that encourages positive actions for our environment. Staff and students in the Louis Riel School Division (LRSD) usually celebrate Earth Day by participating in a variety of activities together that highlight the importance of being kind to the earth and being environmentally responsible. Even though we’re practicing physical distancing this year, it doesn’t mean we can’t make a positive impact on our planet.
A few LRSD teachers have shared their thoughts on how they’re encouraging students to celebrate #EarthDayAtHome.
Kyleigh Parrington, Physical Education Teacher, Samuel Burland School
Kyleigh went live on the
phys. ed. department's YouTube channel this morning to lead Earth Day Yoga. She featured nature-inspired poses for students to try in the comfort of their own homes—including Mountain, Tree, Eagle, Downward Facing Dog, Flower and more—and discussed the importance of keeping our planet clean, healthy and safe.
She’s also working on an upbeat music video all about the 3 R’s (reduce, reuse and recycle).
Denise Miller, Art Teacher, Windsor Park Collegiate
Each week, Denise gives her students at Windsor Park Collegiate a theme for their artwork. This week’s theme was Earth Day, challenging students to create art and reflect on environmental impacts at the same time.
Denise left the form and materials of the artwork up to the imagination of her students.
“It can be a drawing, painting, sculpture out of recycled materials, maybe you'll create some rock art outside, maybe you'll work in your garden to create something beautiful, perhaps you'll use leaves or flowers,” said Denise. “Be creative and push yourself! Have fun with it!”
Jennifer Engbrecht, Music Teacher, École St. Germain
Jennifer is the facilitator for the school’s Environment Club. She posted a fun sing-along video and encouraged students to create an instrument out of reusable household items.
For more Earth Day inspiration: