Parents and Guardians,

Please read the following information about the Sunnyside Environmental School. When you have done so, we ask that you use this form to indicate your understanding of elements of Sunnyside’s program and the importance of family involvement at our school.
__________________________________________________________________________________________

Sunnyside Environmental School (SES) is a group of students, educators, parents, and community partners working together to create a rich learning environment for all students through pedagogy and beliefs that are rooted in environmental education, environmental justice, culturally responsive teaching, place-based education and service learning.

The K-8 curriculum allows children to make meaning of the world around them by incorporating place-based learning experiences into the conventional school week. Place-based education differs from traditional classroom-based education in that it is founded on the belief that students' local community is one of the most important resources for learning.

Place-based education at SES means that part of the student learning experience is spent beyond the walls of the actual school building. Natural spaces, local neighborhoods, museums, our own school yard and university campuses are just a few places where our students learn in place. These locations provide a canvas upon which elements of history, environmental education, scientific and biological relationships, culture, mathematics, economy, literature, and art are used to help children authentically make meaning of the world around them.

The city’s wild and urban areas become sites for inquiry, exploration and understanding as children are pushed to develop the academic and social-emotional skills that lead them to be critically conscious, curious members of the larger community. In pursuit of this goal, students are involved in service learning efforts throughout their years at the school. In February, 8th graders participate in an overnight retreat; in the spring, all middle school students participate in overnight marine biology trips. At some point in the year, 6th graders participate in Oregon’s Outdoor School program, and at the end of the year 5th graders participate in an overnight wilderness trip. Transportation is provided for SES students when on field study.

Family involvement is an essential component of SES. Your response on this form indicates your understanding of our expectations for financial and time commitment. All families will be asked to volunteer time for field studies, overnights, and special activities outside normal school hours. Families will also be asked to help fundraise and contribute financially, as they are able. All program activities are paid for by the SES community, but will be open to all students regardless of families’ ability to contribute time and or money.