PATHWAYS

Official Publication of the New York State Outdoor Education Association

www.nysoea.org 607.591.6422 Winter 2016

Presidents Message

Nature is her own best advocate

Over the course of my time as President of the NYSOEA,
I have been asked why we do not advocate more.
My answer has been that we are not an advocacy
organization. It is certainly beyond our scope as a
volunteer organization to lobby an environmental
agenda. However, I recently realized we are an advocacy
organization. Every day our membership educates
people about the environment and the natural world,
and even more profoundly, we take our students
outside! Teaching in the outdoors is the greatest form
of advocacy. There is nothing more persuasive than
a maple tree with sap slowly dripping on a mild late
winter day or spring peepers heralding spring, or the
mysterious drumming of a male grouse. Nature is her
own best advocate, and as educators we open the door
to the outside world, engaging students in real-life
experiences -- unforgettable educational memories
that will stay with them for the duration of their lives.
When our natural world is threatened, these students
will defend what is important to them. Yes, we all are
advocates, and NYSOEA is an advocacy organization.

NYSOEA Winter Weekend on February 19-21 at Taconic

Outdoor Education Center was co-sponsored by the
Eastern and Metro regions. Nearly 60 people attended the
weekend, one of the best turnouts in recent years. The
lunch time raffle raised over $400 for the Brother Yusuf
Campership Program, so this year, NYSOEA will be sending
five campers to the DEC environmental camps! Thanks
to the Diversity Committee for selecting, registering, and
making a difference in the lives of children who would not
otherwise have such a great opportunity. This is on-theground advocacy!
If you havent had a chance to get involved yet this year,
check out the wide selection of activities being planned by
your regional directors during Environmental Education
Week, April 16-22, 2016, the week leading up to Earth Day
on April 22. Get out and enjoy the outdoors this spring and
lets all advocate for the power of nature to provide rich,
meaningful, and life-changing experiences.

At some recent advocacy events, NYSOEA members

gathered to exchange ideas. The second annual
Environmental Educator Activity Exchange happened in
the Western region at Beaver Meadow Audubon Center
on February 25th, 2016. The large turnout of NYSOEA
members had a great day of sharing and was even
rewarded by a visit from John James Audubon! Enjoy the
photos on NYSOEAs Facebook page.

Timothy J. Stanley
President, NYSOEA
president@nysoea.org

Pathways Winter 2016

Thinking About Time

Written by Pathways Editor Jessica Kratz
vp_human_resources@nysoea.org

The past is never dead. Its not even past.

William Faulkner, Requiem for a Nun
It is looking at things for a long time that ripens
you and gives you a deeper meaning.
Vincent van Gogh
The merry and bright holiday festivities tend to be followed
by quiet reflection. On a quiet January evening, I opted to
empty my Happiness Jar1, which I had been keeping for over
a year. I started this jar at the beginning of 2015, following
a month where we lost NYSOEA colleagues Brother Yusuf
Burgess (for whom our Campership scholarship is named)
and Patty Lent, along with my grandmother, Marjorie
Mulligan, and land preservationist Kathleen Vorwick, who
had spearheaded efforts to save an important parcel of land,
Camp Pouch, on Staten Island.
With the profound sense of loss entering the year, I felt the
need to remind myself of lifes beauty and joys. There were
roughly 50 deposits into the Happiness Jar,1 so I averaged
about 1 per week. These notes, which started out as
mostly a short sentence or two, sometimes with a sketch,
morphed into 1-2 word weekly themes. I noticed three
Pathways Winter 2016

recurring themes: 1) sharing a moment (e.g., a communal

hot chocolate gathering; greeting patrons in costume on
Halloween); 2) celebrating an accomplishment/overcoming
a challenge; 3) silence. I know, in a Sesame Street sense,
one of these things is not like the other. However, what is
significant here is its significance to me. Apparently, silence
is what helps me find the time and energy for mindful
moments- and to remember to record them. Granted, I am
grateful to work in a nature center that is generally bustling
with the sounds of joy, wonder, and discovery of families
meeting reptiles up close and personal, hikers becoming
better acquainted with the trail system, and staff preparing
for exciting upcoming programs. But those quiet moments,
where I hear nothing, except my thoughts and the ticking of
the clock, help me to reflect and recharge.
There are a surprising number of introverts and ambiverts
(extroverted introverts) in the outdoor/environmental
education profession. The introverts and ambiverts among
us seek time alone and solitary activities, such as hiking or
reading, and will gain energy from these quiet periods, as I
have. In addition to being mindful of our personality types
and circadian rhythms, it is also valuable to be aware of
our cadence, the flow or rhythm of events, especially the
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pattern in which something is experienced. The benefit of

being in tune with our cadence is to plan to tackle projects
and challenges when we feel best prepared to do so.
Another discovery I had when opening the Happiness Jar
is that there were entries on January 2nd in each year, and
that the date was clear and sunny in both 2015 and 2016.
In 2016, January 2nd was a Saturday, as it was in 2005, a day
I took a walk in High Rock Park. After the walk, I wrote a
poem January Jaunt, that concludes:
I revel in my January jaunt
Silence following song
Clarity following commotion
A calm and bright Saturday afternoon
Communing with squirrels and sparrows
Watching little girls lift up logs
Discovering hidden worlds
They devise their own scavenger hunt
As I proceed along mine
I was surprised by this synchronism: coincidence in time;
contemporaneousness; simultaneousness.
Another surprising finding was one haiku among the entries,
from January 6th, 2015. Haiku, in its most standard American
form, is three lines: five syllables, seven syllables, then five
syllables. While brevity generally makes them faster to
compose, haikus often have a timeless quality.
Snow falling softly
Calming the epiphany
Thinking about time

One years worth of Happiness Jar content revisited

Photo courtesy of Gabriela Padewska

After a brief period of writing haikus 2009-2011, I became

a lapsed poet for the four years thereafter and was excited
to find my way back in 2015. In What is History? E. H. Carr
refers to the course of history as a moving procession, but
the relative positions of different parts of the procession
are constantly changing.2 Hence, we sometimes feel closer
to certain periods of history, and to our own past, than
other periods of time that may actually be more recent.
I am embracing the participatory and performance art
experiences that are bringing me back to poetry.
Whether you journal, sketch, take photos, have a Happiness
Jar, or something else, I recommend you find time this
season to think about your relationship with time.
(Endnotes)
1. The Happiness Jar was suggested in Seeing the Forest for the
Trees: Arriving at Destination Gratitude. by Maren V. Morsch,
which appeared in the winter 2015 issue of Pathways https://
www.scribd.com/doc/273439826/Pathways-Winter-2015

A classic learning clock, where park visitors practice telling time

Photo courtesy of Jessica R. Kratz

2. Carr, E. H. What is History? (New York: Random House, 1961),

p. 42
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Pathways Winter 2016

2016 Conference
Offers New Adventures & New Ways to Give Back
Written by Kimberly (May) Adriaansen
western_region@nysoea.org
Located on the Finger Lakes Trail just 10 minutes from
downtown Corning, Watson Homestead Retreat and
Conference Center provides the perfect setting for educators
to refresh and recharge at the 2016 NYSOEA Conference,
Portals to the Outdoors happening November 3-6. The
retreat center includes hiking trails, a waterfall, a historic
schoolhouse, pool, and even a gift shop selling hand-made and
locally-produced items. The center offers a range of lodging
options, from hotel-style to dormitory-style rooms, allowing
us to keep the conference affordable for our members.
The Conference Committee, led by co-chairs Meaghan BoiceGreen and Carol Rogers, is hard at work preparing a conference
that will open doors to new ideas for NYSOEA members
through innovative activities, interactive workshops, and
exciting presenters.
Workshops strands like Viewing Nature through Art and
Nature Maker will swing open our minds to creative teaching
techniques, while workshops in the STEM from Nature and

Pathways Winter 2016

Classroom Connections strands will frame practical skills

and techniques for engaging children in nature study.
In addition to workshops in the conference strand Pathways
to the Past, several nearby historic museums will provide
conference attendees with additional gateways to explore the
past, including the Corning Museum of Glass, Heritage Village
of the Southern Finger Lakes Trail, and the Rockwell Museum
of Western Art.
The final conference strand is Nurturing Nature, where
we will explore how outdoor education can be a gateway
to healthy lives and a healthy planet. In keeping with this
strand, we are excited that the 2016 Keynote Speaker will be
long-distance hiker and author Jennifer Pharr Davis. Davis
was the 2012 National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, and
until last year, she held the record for the fastest hike (male
or female) on the entire Appalachian Trail. She will talk about
her own journey to sustainability and the health benefits of
nature.

Friday night the grounds of Watson Homestead will make

the perfect setting for an Evening under the Stars. Guests
will take a hayride to a creek-side bonfire for stargazing
(using the Homesteads telescopes) and smores followed by
live music and dancing with the band Blue Eyed Soul.
On Saturday, Paul Stillman of Historically Speaking will
perform as Theodore Roosevelt, sharing the life and times
of this famous conservationist and former New York State
governor.
Throughout the conference, attendees will enjoy the sounds
of singer-song writer Susan Rozler, a.k.a Mama Earth, who
will be the Artist-in-Residence. Mama Earth will share her
love of music and nature with conference-goers in casual
sing-alongs and formal workshop sessions.
NYSOEA Gives Back: Kids Winter Gear Drive
NYSOEA members pride themselves on encouraging all
children to experience nature outdoors. In an effort to
support children in the community hosting our conference,
we are holding a Kids Winter Gear Drive to benefit a local

organization, Family Service Society. The Society operates

youth programs for underserved children in the Corning
area. Children in their programs benefit from outdoor
recreation and education activities, but those activities
are often limited to warmer months due to a lack of coldweather gear.
Therefore, we are asking conference participants to donate
a winter gear item at the conference. Bring one or more
childrens hats, scarves, gloves etc. to the conference and
add it to the giving tree when you check in. Participate in
the drive and help provide another portal to the outdoors
for the children of Corning!
To make this a truly eye-opening conference, we need
members to share their knowledge and skills by offering
a workshop! The conference location offers a variety of
settings for indoor and outdoor workshops, including field,
forest and stream, as well as a woodworking area with
Schnitzelbanks and a Sugar Shack. Workshop presenters
receive a discount on their conference registration fee.

Pathways Winter 2016

New this year:

In keeping with the Nature Maker strand, conference
attendees will have the chance to participate in a Make and
Take Fair. Each attendee will have the opportunity to make
something to take home and potentially use as a program
idea. Activities may range from making fire-starters to
nature journals to insect nets. The Make and Take sessions
are being held in a large space, so people will be able to
make their one object but also circulate to see what others
are making. Please consider participating in this new and
fun activity!Proposal forms for workshops and the Make
and Take Fair are due March 31 and can be found at www.
NYSOEA.org.
Questions or suggestions?
Please email conferencecommittee2016@nysoea.org.
Thank you for your participation in this exciting event!
See you there!

Pathways Winter 2016

Winter Weekend 2016

An SCA Members Perspective
Written by Emily Crampe, SCA Park
Naturalist at Thacher State Park
NYSOEAs 2016 Winter Weekend was a huge success! Thanks
to everyone who came out and made the weekend so special. We
were excited to have a great turnout of 60 attendees and over 12
wonderful workshops available. The lunchtime raffle raised $415
for the Brother Yusuf Campership, which is more than enough to
send one student to a DEC Summer Camp. It was wonderful to
see so many Student Conservation Association members at Winter
Weekend. The 20 Hudson Valley SCA members who attended for the
first time, brought with them enthusiasm and spirit, so it seems
most appropriate to get a view of the weekend through one of their
lenses. - Kate Brill, Eastern Region chair
The weather forecast called for 50 degrees and plentiful
sunshine as we drove to the Taconic Outdoor Education
Center for Winter Weekend. As a first timer at a NYSOEA
event I didnt quite know what to expect. The weekend
started off with a potluck dinner on the first night, and as we
all gathered around crockpots and bowls full of recipes likely
handed down from Great Aunt Sue and Grandma Lenore, it
was clear that this weekend was going to be filled with caring,
welcoming people eager to spread their knowledge and make
new friends.
8

The next day did not disappoint. After a wonderful breakfast

made by the TOEC staff we all dove right into workshops.
There was a great array of options to choose from. From
tree identification to cordage making, from Putnam County
folklore to seed collection and propagation, there was
something for everyone. A wood burning station was set up
for any down time- a favorite activity at the weekend for
many. In every workshop I took part in I was continuously
amazed and encouraged by the knowledge and enthusiasm
displayed not only by those leading the workshops, but
also by the participants. Everyone was there to investigate
a mutual goal of outdoor education and learn from each
other. This welcoming and laid back atmosphere encouraged
a unique community and environment for the duration
of the weekend.
Outside of the workshops, the fun continued. The weather felt
like an early spring day, but the duck pond was still frozen
enough for broomball. A friendly game broke out, and between
the slips and tumbles and slushy splashes a few goals were
scored! Soon after, we all gathered inside for dinner and then
circled around for the trade blanket event. I had never been
Pathways Winter 2016

to a trade blanket, and before we left for TOEC I ran around

my house trying to find something that others would want/
find interesting; I came up with a jar and a ball of yarn. I sat
in the circle and listened to the explanation of how a trade
blanket worked. Soon all sorts of items emerged: soap, a vase,
a moose sweatshirt, wooden artifacts from Africa, various
bones, books, a clock, etc. We all learned about each other
and what we value. Some went for trinkets; others went for
more everyday practical use items. Laughter filled the room
as people tried to market their objects to make the best trades
possible. Some played the short game and only traded for
something they truly wanted while others were in it for the
long haul and did several side trades. The events concluded
with an outdoor bonfire on a clear night reminiscent of those
early fall evenings when only a sweatshirt is required.
The NYSOEA Winter Weekend was truly a gift. When speaking
to people about why they enjoyed this weekend, one person
said that he loved it because it was so relaxing- like a minivacation. Another person said that he loved it because
you get to meet so many interesting people. Whatever the
reason, this weekend had something for everyone to enjoy.
This supportive, calming atmosphere allowed people to relax,
share corny jokes, learn new skills, and explore the Hudson
Valley all while connecting with the remarkable folks who
reside within it.

Pathways Winter 2016

photos courtesy of Kate Brill, Libby Young, and Aaron Phipps

by Snapper Petta

RAMBLINGS FROM RED HILL

10

The End...
How does a person conclude a process that began over
a decade ago? Some might do it slowly, deliberately.
Others, knowing the immediate discomfort will soon
subside, quickly yank off the proverbial band aid and
let it be done. In my situation the approach used
doesnt matter in the end. The result remains the
same. This column, a regular feature of Pathways
for almost 12 years, will exist no longer.
I apologize if this sounds melodramatic but Ive
always cared deeply about writing this column. From
the onset, when I proposed the idea to the editorial
board, deadlines have remained prominently
attached to my computer so I wont miss an issue.
Yet, like in all things, there comes a time when its
readily apparent the endeavor should come to an
end. And, if youre lucky, the conclusion comes while
youre still ahead of the game; which I hope I am.
For those of you who have stuck with me all these
years, let me say thank you. Ive tried to share
my experiences in a way that allows you to better
understand my perspective on people, places, and

issues that affect each of us at one time or another.

It has never been my intent to create controversy
but I do hope Ive gotten you to think. While you
may not have agreed with all my positions, Ive
appreciated the opportunity to share and express
my ideas openly and candidly. After all, if we, as
educators, cant discuss potentially uncomfortable
topics how can we ever expect a civil discourse
to break out anywhere else? In my opinion it is
our ability to confront ideas, especially the ones
that differ from our own, which is of paramount
importance in our nation today. Without that skill,
we will eventually be overtaken by those whose
rhetoric is stronger than our own even if their
comments are incorrect and full of bluster.
In closing let me state how much Ive enjoyed
this experience along the way. While no longer a
constant within Pathways, I will write occasionally
when I feel theres something to say. So instead of
signing off for all time, Ill leave you with this
Until our paths should cross again, may all your
rambles lead you to new and exciting places.

Sunset at Ashokan Reservoir photo via Joseph Sohm, Shutterstock

Pathways Winter 2016

Seasonal

Book Review
Leaflets Three, Let It Be: The Story of Poison Ivy
Written by Anita Sanchez, author
Illustrated by Robin Brickman
Reviewed by Frank Knight
Boyds Mills Press, Honesdale, PA, 2014
Hardcover, 32 pages, $16.95
For children pre-K to grade 3 and above

How do you generate enthusiasm for the plants we love to

hate? Writer and environmental educator Anita Sanchez
should know: her adult dandelion book, The Tooth of the Lion,
was published in 2006. Here she does it again, this time using
childrens inherent interest in animals to create a fascinating
page-turner. She shares with readers the overwhelmingly
beneficial qualities of this vine, while cautioning about its
potential danger. Ms. Sanchez convincingly shares her own
fascination with poison ivy.
The books title has long been the catch phrase warning
reminder. Two other less familiar rhyming phrases are
presented by the author: hairy vine a warning sign describes
the hairy roots that attach the vine to the trunk as it climbs
straight up a tree. These hairy vines are the main clue to
deciduous ivys presence in winter. Berries white take flight
is a reminder that the unusual white-colored ripe fruit warn
us not to touch. All parts of the plant aerial roots, flowers,
fruit and leaves contain irritating urushiol.
In each of the four seasons, Ms. Sanchez reveals poison ivys
benefits to wildlife. Rabbits, deer and even black bear relish
the tender new leaves, among the first to appear each spring.
Without mentioning ecology, she portrays poison ivy as a
significantly beneficial member of its natural community.

Pathways Winter 2016

Recognizing leaf variability is stressed as an aid to

identification and avoiding contact. Leaf size, seasonal color
and marginal teeth vary considerably. Where ivy grows as a
ground cover, leaves help maintain a moist environment for
toads and salamanders and protective cover from predators
searching from above. Hidden away, these amphibians are
free to pursue their own insect prey. A Cardinal brings a fat
caterpillar to its hungry young secure in a nest lined with
poison ivy rootlets. Bees take nectar from tiny white flowers
that become overwintering fruit. A whole host of birds
including Red-bellied Woodpeckers and turkeys feed on ivy
berries.
Compelling illustrations are essential to books for young
readers and Robin Brickman is up to the task. Colorful
and detailed poison ivy habitats on every page enrich the
narrative by moving the readers eyes around the page to
discover what other plants and animals, not mentioned
in the text, share poison ivys haunts. Brickman describes
the unusual technique used to give the illustrations depth.
Individual picture components were cut out, glued down and
photographed. Glue-gun drips represent water drops, and
clear plastic became insect wings.
Continued on page 16...

11

Bio-Blitz
An Event Where Everyone Plays a Role!
Written by Emily Crampe, SCA Park
Naturalist at Thacher State Park
A child discovers a mallard duck in the park and follows it
around, while the parents watch the childs excitement. A
group of friends sets out into the woods to look at fungi, and
spends some time watching a doe and her fawn. A high school
student wants to learn the names of bird species, and talks
with a local ornithologist. You can have similar experiences if
you attend a Bio-Blitz.

What is a Bio-Blitz?
A Bio-Blitz is usually a one-day event where a community
made up of volunteers and scientists come together to explore
an area. They discover and document all types of species they
find in 24 hours (it can be longer if needed). You can find these
events throughout the nation.

Why do parks and organizations hold Bio-Blitz events?

Bio-Blitz events help determine if an ecosystem is in
balance and healthy. Sometimes a management plan is
needed to keep the ecosystem healthy, and a Bio-Blitz can
help determine that.

12

Other goals include engaging people in science and learning

new things about a place in their community. Bio-Blitz events
often shape attendees into being stronger stewards of their
environment.
Volunteers serve a vital role by creating a list of species
present in that area. The more species found, the healthier
the ecosystem. Scientists analyze the list and also look for
indicator species, keystone species, and invasive species.
Indicator species consist of species that are sensitive to
pollution. If their numbers drop, it should be a cause for
concern. Studies might have to be carried out to help
determine the best plan of action. The wood frog is a good
example of an indicator species.
Keystone species consist of species that have a great influence
on the health of the community. Without the presence of
these species, an ecosystem will be dramatically changed,
or can even cease to exist. These species usually dont have
natural predators to keep their numbers under control. The

Pathways Winter 2016

hummingbird is listed as a keystone species because of its

role in pollination. Its presence in an ecosystem can lead to
the rapid spread of non-native or invasive plants.

Environmental Education Week in Photos

Invasive species cause major damage to an ecosystem,

affecting all of the species in that ecosystem. They also affect
humans (usually in the way of their health or economy).

Why do community members volunteer at Bio-Blitz events?

The responsibility is on us to check the health of our
ecosystem and step in to help it if necessary.
Brianna Rosamillia, a graduate student at State University
of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry
wanted to investigate this question. She set out to interview
volunteers at three Bio-Blitz events (Woodstock NY,
Westport NY, and Dingmans Ferry, PA) to see their reasons
for volunteering and their opinions of the event. Samples
of questions she included are In your opinion, what is the
purpose of a Bio- Blitz event?, What makes this event
successful?, and Would you like to share any moments that
left an impression on you?. Surveys helped Brianna collect
additional information for her study.
Volunteers attended the event to learn something new, collect
data, or network with other people with similar interests.
Volunteers stated that the main highlights of the Bio-Blitz
event included finding a specific species, or interacting with
people who share similar interests.
Answers to the survey indicated that the top three motivations
for attending the event were to contribute to scientific data
collection, learn about the biodiversity of the area, and to
learn something new. Brianna learned that many people
were motivated to get involved because a friend or family
member told them about it.
Participants stated that the event was fun for them. Brianna
stated, During my research it was fun to see new sites, see
different species, and share in the participants enthusiasm.
It was awesome to be there and observe everything.
Brianna has found that organizers and volunteers share
similar perceptions on Bio-Blitz events. From those findings,
she has compiled a list for event organizers to help make
their event a success.

Where do I find local Bio-Blitz events?

Check your local parks and nature centers. You could also
check to see if a local college is participating in a Bio-Blitz
event. These events have become really popular, and are
found throughout the country. You can learn and share
new information, have fun, and meet new people. Bio-Blitz
events are fun for the whole family.

Pathways Winter 2016

13

2016 Environmental Education Week Events

WESTERN REGION EVENTS

CENTRAL REGION EVENTS

Drink to the Earth Social

Friday, April 22, 2016 from 6 to 8 pm
Big Ditch Brewery, 55 Huron St, Buffalo, NY 14203

Earth Day Hike, Dinner and Movie!

Wednesday, April 20, 2016 from 5:30 to 8:30 pm
Taughannock Falls State Park

The Wild Blue Planet

Saturday, April 23, 2016 from 9 am to 2 pm
DeWitt Recreation Area, 115 Cedar St, Batavia, NY 14020

EASTERN REGION EVENTS

NORTHERN REGION EVENTS

Green Up the North Country
Saturday, April 23, 2016 from 10 am to 4 pm
Willsboro Town Hall, 1 Point Road, Willsboro, NY 12996

Earth Day in the Pine Bush

Saturday, April 16, 2016 from 9 am to 12 pm
195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205
Trailside Museums & Zoo
(at Bear Mountain State Park) Earth Day Celebration
Saturday, April 23, 2016 from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm
(Rain date: Sunday, April 24)
Trailside Museums & Zoo (at Bear Mountain State Park)
Walk with the NYSOEA President
at John Burroughs Slabsides
Saturday, April 23, 2016 at 1:00 pm
261 Floyd Ackert Road, West Park, NY 12493

METRO REGION EVENTS

SCA ConSERVE NYC Earth Day Service at Fort Wadsworth
Saturday, April 16th, 9:30 am to 2:30 pm
Fort Wadsworth Visitor Center
120 New York Ave, Staten Island
Greenbelt Nature Center Open House:
Earth Day Celebration
Saturday April 23, 2016 11 am to 4 pm
Greenbelt Nature Center, 700 Rockland Ave, Staten Island
Forest Restoration at Wave Hill
Sunday, April 24, 2016 from 1 to 4 pm
Wave Hill, a public garden and cultural center in the Bronx.

Potting Up, hosted by the Hudson Estuary Trees

for Tribs program
Friday, April 29th from 9 am to 4 pm
NYSDEC Region 3 office
21 South Putt Corners, New Paltz, NY 12561

Pre-Registration is required for nearly all events.

Please visit the Events Calendar at www.
nysoea.org
for full event descriptions, registration,
and contact information.

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Pathways Winter 2016

Environmental Education in the

Every Student Succeeds Act (S.1177)
Background

EE Language

Large numbers of environmental education providers,

conservation organizations, businesses, sportsmans groups,
health care workers, school administrators and others have
advocated for increased federal support for environmental
education through amendments to the Elementary and
Secondary Education Act (formerly No Child Left Behind). In
2007, Senator Jack Reed and Congressman John Sarbanes first
introduced the No Child Left Inside Act (NCLI) which would
amend ESEA to include federal funds that state could use for
implementation of state-wide environmental literacy plans.
The legislation has enjoyed bipartisan support since that time
and a modified version of the bill passed the House in 2008.

The key language sits in Title IV of the Every Student

Succeeds Act21st Century Schools:

The years of advocacy and support for NCLI have yielded

critical and unprecedented gains for environmental
education. States across the country have begun or completed
comprehensive environmental literacy plans that address
opportunities to embed EE in K-12 schools as well as increase
access to nature at the community level. Working closely
with Senator Reeds office, NAAEE, along with its affiliates
(including NYSOEA) and partners secured some key language
for EE in the Senate version of a reauthorization bill for the
ESEA which passed in July. A House version also passed in July,
but it was remarkably different than the Senate version and
contained no language referencing environmental education
or environmental literacy.
NAAEE closely monitored negotiations between Senate
and House leadership as they sought to draft compromise
legislation late last fall. While the final proposal looked
more like the House version than the Senate, the language
supporting environmental education remains intact.

Overwhelming support

The Every Student Succeeds Act passed the House on

December 2, 2015 with a vote of 359-64.

It passed in the Senate on December 9, 2015 with a vote

of 85-12.

Pathways Winter 2016

Environmental education is called out as eligible for

funding under a $1.6 billion well-rounded education
grants program

Environmental literacy programs are eligible for funding

as part of the $1 billion 21st Century Community Learning
Centers program.

The prioritization of STEM activities including handson learning and field-based or service learning to
enhance understanding of STEM subjects may provide
additional opportunities for environmental science
education programs.

Next Steps
While we are celebrating this advance for EE after many years
of hard work, there is a great deal that will need to happen
after the legislation is signed into law. NAAEE, its Affiliates
and partners will work to:

Make recommendations to the U.S. Department of

Education regarding the design of the grant programs
described in Title IV of the bill.

Develop fact sheets and messages that provide state and

local education agencies and their partners important
information about how ESSA funds can be used to
support essential environmental education programs
and implementation of environmental literacy plans.

Identify and disseminate models for the use of U.S.

Education grant funds to support effective environmental
education in K-12 schools.

NAAEE will continue to analyze the full bill and develop

communications to inform affiliates, EE providers, and state
and local education agencies how the law may benefit their
environmental literacy work. NAAEE continues to work
closely with Senator Reed and Congressman Sarbanes to
assess additional opportunities to strengthen federal support
for EE.

15

Book Review continued

A wise professor long ago told us natural history students
that if we wanted to learn everything about a particular
subject, read a textbook. If we want to learn what is
interesting and important, read a childrens book. Since I
write essays (and book reviews) on natural history subjects,
I follow that advice. My research often includes at least one
childrens book.
In selecting books, I always look for a page with more
information to provide guidance for teachers and parents.
Ms. Sanchezs Itching to Know More pages posed important
questions and answers not revealed in the childrens text:
how we get sensitized, rash duration, remedies, control in
our yards, and more. Readers learn the answers to these
questions, plus: Can we get poison ivy from honey made
from poison ivy flowers? A picture quiz helps readers
distinguish poison ivy leaves from four lookalikes. My
favorite question is Why do such bad plants exist? a very
important concept in our anthropocentric world. Her brief
answer is straightforward. Plants are neither good nor
bad, they just are. Native to North America and here long
before humans came, poison ivy provides wildlife food and
shelter as well as erosion control.
The natural world that our increasingly urban/suburban
populations confront is perceived more and more alien
and frightening. Turning our fears inside out, Ms. Sanchez
skillfully convinces us that poison ivy enriches the natural
world far more than it threatens us. We need more books
like leaflets three that entice children and their mentors
outdoors to explore the big, beautiful, fascinating and notquite-so-scary world beyond their doorsteps.
Editors Note: Anita Sanchez is a NYSOEA member and plans
on offering a workshop about poison ivy at the 2016 Annual
Conference, which will take place at Watson Homestead in the
Finger Lakes. A previous version of this book review was included
in the August 2015 NYS Conservationist magazine and can be
accessed at www.dec.ny.gov/pubs/102804.html

16

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NYSOEA Executive Board

Regional Directors

Pathways

President Tim Stanley

President-Elect Eric Powers
VP Administration Elizabeth Young
VP Communication Eric Powers
VP Human Resources Jessica Kratz
VP Program Jolene Thompson
Secretary Loren Smith, Ph.D.
Secretary-Elect Sunny Corrao
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Office - Darleen Lieber

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Contributing
Past Editors
Frank Knight
Snapper Petta

2016 Conference Chairs

Meghan Boice-Green
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Content Editors
Jill Eisenstein
Frank Knight
Darleen Lieber
Maren Morsch

Pathways Winter 2016