A New Purpose for the A-Frame

It actually started in 2018, when a team from AmeriCorps NCCC created the first Environmental Learning Center in the beach basement at the waterfront. The talented, artistic team created murals to showcase the discoveries that students would encounter at our tidal zone. Unfortunately, the big snow/ice storm of that winter landed a tree on the roof and the building was demolished. We saved what artwork we could and stored it safely in the loft of the shop.

With a growing OEE program, the lower part of the A-Frame was chosen to house a new ELC. The artwork was integrated into the design and we are all excited about this indoor space for future activities for students and campers.

Thank you Sadie, Michael, Catherine, Sammi, and Saquawn for your hard work creating this new resource.

The A-Frame

Upstairs, is a small apartment for a staff member. Downstairs, is the Environmental Learning Center (ELC).

Entryway

Artwork from AmeriCorps NCC 2018 greets students.

Entryway

Love the orcas! Over time, students will paint rocks to add underneath.

Inside

Plenty of storage underneath the side tables for outdoor environmental education equipment. More AmeriCorps artwork.

The ELC can seat 16 students. There are plenty of resources on the shelves.

Student Microscopes

Students and campers can look at their discoveries close up. The microscopes are a gift fromJim & Pat Yeilding.

Digital Microscope

The naturalist in charge of the ELC can project particularly interesting images onto the big TV for the class to enjoy. This microscope was also a gift from Jim & Pat Yeilding. (Have you seen our Amazon wishlist yet?)

Matildas

The “matilda” day packs are set up for various activities. Naturalists and summer staff can grab one and venture out (waltzing matilda) to teach a lesson to students and campers.

Exit

More amazing AmeriCorps-designed artwork. We teach navigation and piloting lessons to OEE students and Expedition campers.

OK Class - have a seat!

More artwork.

Starry starry ceiling

The ceiling has been painted matte black with glow-in-the-dark stars arranged in constellations. This is the start of an eventual astronomy program which could take place on the field next to the ELC.

Resources

As we acquire new resources, lesson plans, and equipment, they have a home in the ELC.