Earth Fest Feted — Ecology Elementary for Harrold Students

By Story; photos by Monica Laszacs Special to My Life

During E. A. Harrold Elementary’s Earth Fest, the school was turned into a zoo.

Representatives from the Memphis Zoo, Boys Ranch, Meeman Shelby Forest, Reelfoot Lake and T. O. Fuller State Park were on hand with their animal friends and slimy creatures.

Students were able to get up close and personal with many wildlife creatures such as the red-tailed hawk, bald eagle, hooting owl and a speckled king snake.

Nearly every classroom was transformed into an observation room or experimental lab where students learned how to make solar ovens, plant a garden and find out what products contain wood.

“The purpose for this event was to enlighten the students about different plant and animal habitats as well as their own,” said Dan Edmiston, science teacher and event coordinator. “I think we achieved that.”

The event was well-received with 19 environmentally-related activities. Teachers as well as presenters commended the children on their behavior and knowledge of the day’s topics, according to Edmiston.

In preparation for Earth Fest, the school’s Environmental Club spent numerous hours making the schoolyard gleam with colorful flowers and plants. Several parents pitched in and donated their time and supplies from their own businesses.

“We had such a good response from the community, parents and the students,” Edmiston added. “I am looking forward to next year where we can try new things and improve the old.”

Representatives also came from the University of Memphis, Tennessee Solid Waste Education Project (TN SWEP), Strawberry Plains Audubon Center, Scotts Company, Dixon Gallery and Gardens, Memphis Botanic Gardens, Tennessee Energy Education Network (TEEN), Wolf River Conservancy, Lumbermen’s Club and the Hardwood Forest Foundation.

Millington Elementary also joined in on the Earth Day celebration. Kindergartners became budding flowers in a special program held during a PTA meeting. Dressed in bright-colorful shirts and flower halos, students turned several popular kids’ tunes into cute messages about conservation.

Monica Laszacs is a free-lance writer.

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