SITE DIRECTORY

ATTENTION PARENTS -  permission and medical forms are available by clicking the download button above.
 

Welcome!

The Randolph County Outdoor Education Program (RCOEP) provides fifth grade students in Randolph County Schools with a three-day residency grounded in the county's rich natural environment and cultural heritage.  Based on the idea that some of the best teaching and learning experiences grow out of a sense of place, the program draws on the resources of over two dozen agencies and organizations working throughout Randolph County.   The program was designed to increase children's awareness of local habitats, heritage, and environment, and addresses a variety of local issues while exploring different solutions.
	Students who participate in the Randolph County Outdoor Education Program explore local waterways, forests, history, culture, and resource management practices.  They collect data from their watershed, discuss local issues from diverse viewpoints, and participate in activities that celebrate regional arts, crafts, and music.  Throughout the three-day residency, each student will keep a journal of his / her own experiences.  Through this exercise, students who participate in the Outdoor Education Program will gain a greater understanding of their local landscape and its vital role in their lives.

• Attend sessions that introduce them to nearby wetlands, streams, public and private forested areas, and farmlands;
• Hear firsthand the music and stories of surrounding communities, and discuss the connection between the human and natural landscapes;
• Experience and discuss different approaches to decision making and look at issues from different perspectives; 
• Reflect on their individual and collective values and be encouraged to use and develop critical thinking skills; and meet professionals from many different occupations, who may serve as role models when it comes time to choose a career.

 

The Randolph County Outdoor Education Program is based at Camp Pioneer, the county's 4-H camp near the historic town of Beverly.  The program is held during the months of September and May.

Does the Outdoor Education Program work?  Students were given a pre-test and a post-test during their session.  Here are the test results for the Fall 2001 and Spring 2002 sessions :