Project Description:
After learning about the benefits and history of native plants, seventh- and eighth-grade students removed spotted knapweed from an existing courtyard on campus and created native plant beds. Their fall water study culminated in a canoe voyage on the Rogue River.  In the spring, students weeded the new beds and added more mulch.

Fostering Lifelong Stewardship:
Students report that their families no longer put unsanitary items in a storm drain, no longer wash their cars on concrete, and notice if invasive species are on their property. Without Groundswell activities in their classes, students would not be aware of their own impact on their environment.

Partners:
Ada Township Parks

Teachers:
5

Students:
400

Funder:
Baldwin Foundation

Showcase Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uCT8KGaE5EA

Project Description:
Seventh-grade students began their Ecology unit with a presentation from Mark Fitzpatrick, director of Ada Parks, about invasive species. Students again worked on spotted knapweed removal from an existing courtyard on campus. In September, eighth-grade students studied water quality through chemical testing and macroinvertebrate data and discovered the connections within the Grand River watershed. In the spring, eighth graders tested water on Eastern’s campus and compared their data to the fall results. In May, 200 students visited Roselle Park to pick garlic mustard, an invasive species there, and to plant natives from seeds collected on the school grounds.

Fostering Lifelong Stewardship:
All students realize that although they are young, they are still responsible for their environment. Even if they cannot personally change practices, they can inform adults about proper land and water usage.

Partners:
Ada Township Parks, Michigan Nature Association, River City Wild Ones, Grand Rapids Whitewater

Teachers:
2

Students:
410

Funder:
Baldwin Foundation

Showcase Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltKKxp1Vk1I

Project Description:
Students continued work on removing spotted knapweed and maintaining the native plantings in the courtyard on campus. Each year, students decrease the amount of spotted knapweed by creating new planting areas and planting additional native plants. Students also did a spring cleaning of the courtyard, which included weeding and adding more mulch. In May, students visited Roselle Park to pick garlic mustard and to plant natives from seeds collected on campus.

Fostering Lifelong Stewardship:
Students experienced a day of stewardship at Roselle Park after being helped by Roselle Park staff throughout the school year. They understand that the actions of a twelve- or thirteen-year old can positively impact their community.

Partners:
Ada Township Parks, Grand Rapids Whitewater, River City Wild Ones

Teachers:
2

Students:
400

Funder:
GVSU College of Education

Showcase Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1ads5ZLhro

Project Description:
Seventh grade students began the school year with a week-long study of Michigan invasive species, which culminated with a “Most Unwanted” poster. Mark Fitzpatrick visited all seventh grade classrooms to talk about our campus invasive, spotted knapweed, and then students removed the knapweed and installed native plants. In May, all 200 students visited Roselle Park to help Mark and his staff with projects. This solidifies the concept of stewardship. Eighth graders studied the watershed surrounding our school and then spent two hours canoeing down the Rogue River in Rockford. This further cements their connection to their watershed.

Fostering Lifelong Stewardship:
Students experienced a day of stewardship at Roselle Park after being helped by Roselle Park staff throughout the school year. They understand that the actions of a twelve or thirteen year old can positively impact their community.

Partners:
Ada Township Parks, River City Wild Ones

Teachers:
4

Students:
400

Funder:
GVSU College of Education

Showcase Video:
https://youtu.be/6zXQRPIUBH8