Nature Zone
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Each classroom is assigned a plot which
they take care of throughout the school year. This involves plant
identification, weeding, planning, and planting.
Plans are made for what needs
to be ordered and planted for the year. The bed is prepared for winter
in late September and early October. New plants and bulbs are ordered.
The bulbs are planted before winter sets in.
Another part of the Nature
Zone is the greenhouse. The greenhouse is used to raise annuals
for planting in the spring. It is also used for classroom projects
that involve growing plants.
The annuals that were ordered
in the fall arrive in late winter and are raised in the greenhouse till
they are ready for transplanting in May. Many plants and hanging
baskets are also raised by the children to take home for Mother's Day.
The greenhouse was purchased with funds provided by a
Packer Foundation Grant, a personal donation from Lawrence Kuehn (A Pearl
Harbor Survivor, from Industry, Texas. See Pearl Harbor Project at Index.),
and funds provided by the Northern Tioga School District.
The structure was constructed
by JTPA (Job Training Partnership Act) participants in the NTRPDC (Northern
Tier Regional Planning & Development Commission) out of school youth
program.
The Nature Zone's Gazebo was constructed
in
memory of Lt. Jack Bush, a top Navy pilot, who lost his life in February
1997 in an airplane accident. Funds for the materials were provided
by Dr. and Mrs. John Bush. Construction was carried out by JTPA participants.
Two foot bridges were constructed by CV High School Industrial
Arts students.
A dedication ceremony was held in
May 1997. Students presented a special Spring Program for the hundreds
of parents and community members that attended. Individuals, local
businesses, and community groups were recognized and honored for their
help in creating The Nature Zone.
The driving force behind the Nature Zone from the beginning
has been W.A.E.S. Principal, F. Thomas Huzey. His vision and hard
work brought this educational dream to reality. He continues to work
with the students and staff every year to develop and maintain the center
for future generations of students.
The public is encouraged to
volunteer their help and expertise and to come, walk through, and enjoy
The
Nature Zone.
The Following Organizations, Businesses, Groups, and Individuals Have Devoted Time, Effort, and/or Money to the Development of The Nature Zone.
K & W Medical Specialties
Ralph Wolsternholme
G.P.U. Electric Company
Tri-County Rural Electric Co-op
Wal-Mart Corporation
North Penn Gas Company
Northern Tioga School District
Morgan & Margraff
C.N.G. Transmission Corporation
Westfield Tanning Company
Ackley's Sporting Goods
John and Lois Bush
Larry Kuehn
The Packer Foundation
Electri-Cord Manufacturing Company
Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission
Tioga County Conservation District
Westfield Area PTO
Bill Bloom
Bob Seeley
Ellen Hughes
The Teachers and Staff of The Westfield Area Elementary School
