Nature as Your Teacher with Kyra Stephenson

Teach Outdoors

In this episode of the Teach Outdoors podcast, we feature Kyra Stephenson, who serves as a Nature-Based Learning Coach at Anna Murray-Douglass Academy School #12 within the Rochester City School District. Kyra has successfully integrated a comprehensive nature-based learning (NBL) program into a PreK-8th grade public school setting. You can follow Kyra on Instagram to stay updated on her initiatives and insights.
Email: [e-mail]

School website: https://www.rcsdk12.org/12

Instagram: kls_natureed

Purpose – How Nature-Based Learning Started for Kyra

Kyra’s journey with nature-based learning is deeply rooted in her own lifelong connection with nature, beginning in her childhood and continuing through adulthood. Motivated by a personal health scare and an understanding of nature’s positive benefits, Kyra sought to make a bigger difference and create a lasting impact through her work. The NBL program at her school is built on three main pillars:

- Academic Growth

- Physical and Emotional Wellness

- Community Building, which includes fostering connections with the natural community.

Benefits of Nature-Based Learning

The program supports Social Emotional Learning (SEL) initiatives, with data collected from Wellness Check-ins indicating significant benefits. Students exhibit awe, joy, and 100% engagement during nature-based activities, which positively impacts their overall well-being and readiness to engage in classroom learning. The program emphasizes learning outdoors, and its benefits are evident as students transition back into the classroom environment.

Outcomes of the Program

The implementation of NBL has led to a noticeable culture shift within the school. Behavior referrals have decreased, and there are initial findings of academic growth. The school has also established an outdoor classroom and developed lessons that integrate with the district's curriculum, enhancing the learning experience.

Goals for the Future

Kyra is currently awaiting final approval to conduct research on the impact of NBL at her school in collaboration with a professor from SUNY Brockport. The program aims to meet the needs defined within the City of Rochester’s Children and Outdoor Bill of Rights. Future goals include incorporating more teacher preparation programs with local universities, expanding the NBL program to other schools within the district and beyond, and creating a generation of Nature Ambassadors.

One of my favourite suggestions from Kyra can be found around minute 37 when she talks about Nature Portraits and Nature Names!

For more information about the Fall 2024 symposium, visit: Rochester Ecology Partners Event

Learn more about the City of Rochester’s Children and Outdoor Bill of Rights here: City of Rochester Article