A letter from new Learning Centre staffer: Heather Andrachuk
from Heather Andrachuk, Facilitator,
Forest Kindergarten/Carp Ridge Learning Centre
Dear Carp Ridge EcoWellness Centre Family,
As the cooler weather approaches and school resumes, I look forward each day to meeting people from the Carp Ridge & West Carleton community.
I’m the newest member of the Learning Centre staff, responsible for the Homeschool Wilderness Program and the exciting new Forest Kindergarten. As a bit of background on me, I recently completed my Bachelor of Education degree at Queen’s University, specializing in their Outdoor and Experiential Education program. My year at teacher’s college was both fulfilling and rewarding, and I’m keen to put my new knowledge into practice.
I took a bit of a winding road to get into teaching, doing an undergraduate degree in Biology and Environmental Studies, then coordinating ecological monitoring programs at Environment Canada, and working through a Masters of Environmental Studies. I’ve also spent a lot of volunteer time with Junior Naturalist Clubs both in Hamilton and Kingston over the last few years. I have always been most content in the out-of-doors and am delighted to be a teacher, learning about the natural world with young people every day. I’m especially excited to be part of the wonderful education initiatives at the Carp Ridge Learning Centre.
We’ve started our programs and curriculum for this new year for returning and new children. I want to find out what you might like to contribute to the program(s) — ideas, hands-on skills, learning opportunities, or even guest appearances — and your goals for this year, so I’ll be in touch. I also want to invite you to our outdoor potluck social/live music/children’s art festival, 4-7pm, Wed, Sept 28th — something else you should know about me is that I love sharing food!
As our director mentions in her invitation, all are welcome! Please extend this invitation to any of our previous families, interested community members, or anyone else you know who is interested in the work we do. Tickets will be $10 per adult, $5 per child, and all proceeds will go towards the building of our outdoor classroom.
In the meantime, feel free to send your thoughts or questions in an email or stop by to chat when you’re at the EcoWellness Centre. This year holds so much potential and I’m thrilled to be part of the Carp Ridge community.
See you soon. Outdoorably yours,
Heather Andrachuk, OCT
heather@carpridgelearningcentre.ca
613-839-1179
