Chris Green, Director of the Guelph Outdoor School, provides children who struggle in a traditional classroom environment with the opportunity to learn in a hands-on, alternative setting that focuses largely on the natural world.
The program, founded 10 years ago, now serves more than 300 families on a weekly basis. Both children and adults are welcome to build their confidence, naturalist knowledge and outdoor skills.
As an educator, Chris recognizes the gaps and barriers presented by traditional classroom settings for some children. Using his in-depth knowledge of the school curriculum, Chris built a program that creates connections between the learning children experience in school and their observations and wonderings about nature.
Through his programming, children have the opportunity to learn in a fun, inclusive environment that helps them to build confidence and life skills that will impact them positively as they grow into young adults.
Many children who have taken the program love it so much that they have moved on to become volunteers and staff of the Guelph Outdoor School.
In addition to changing the lives of children in our community for the better, Chris also works with educators to support them in getting their students outdoors for learning. This has positively transformed how educators, parents and youth view and connect with nature, making Chris a true trailblazer in the education field both in Guelph and beyond.
The Education Award is presented to a student, teacher, administrator, or education advocate who has made a difference in our community.
Congratulations, Chris!
This award is proudly sponsored by DUCA.
