LENOIR, NC (September 10, 2021) — Baton Elementary students go outdoors for new learning experiences in trail biking, gardening, and nature studies, enriching opportunities available for students in grades K-5 provided by grant funding and community support.
“It’s more important now than ever to get students outdoors,” said Baton Elementary principal Jason Teffeteller. “Having these learning experiences outdoors not only expands the curriculum but also improves students’ overall health and development.”
The GO Grant funding source totaling $4,000 supported the creation of an outdoor nature trail, bike trail, vegetable garden, and bird sanctuary on the Baton Elementary school campus. Support also came through the NC Department of Transportation Bicycle Helmet Initiative that secured 100 children’s bike helmets.
The 20 Cannondale bikes presented today in front of the student body and staff were donated by the non-profit organization Hearts and Soles 4 Kids, Overmountain Cycles, and from individual donors.
“We helped get these bikes and put them together,” said Michael Lowther, owner of Overmoutain Cycles in Morganton. “We’re just happy to help and be a part of this.” Overmoutain Cycles also donated tools and supplies for maintenance and upkeep of the bicycles.
During the school day, students will go outdoors and ride bikes along the trails, identify plants and ecosystems on the nature paths, plant and harvest food in the school garden, and help care for and protect bird species in their own community.
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