A collection of feedback as an Environmental Educator during the 2017-2018 school year at IslandWood, a school in the woods
Chaperone Feedback
“Summer modeled flexibility in adapting lessons mid-instruction to address issues or concerns. She included everyone, and made sure to make a personal connection with each member of her group. I witnessed students in my group become more reflective and aware of the various communities they are members of, and trying to be productive members and stewards of their communities. They know how to have an impact!” – Teacher chaperone, May 2018
“Summer allowed the students to take ownership of their learning. For example, the harbor trip allowing them to look for glass on the beach instead of directing them to something else for data collection. That allowed the learning to be more meaningful.” – Teacher chaperone, April 2018
“Summer was lovely! Set expectations, clear communication, respectful. Great job connecting with kids, setting expectations, being patient and kind. Got them to slow down and be present where they were. [The students are] more patient, calm, curious, engaged, observant. Fun to see such a dramatic transformation. Great experience for all!” – Parent chaperone, February 2018
“Summer had to think on her feet more than a few times to deal with individual student needs and behaviors…She handled everything with ease and professionalism. Our kids certainly began to think outside of themselves and their needs. They are considering the bigger picture of the world around them by thinking about food waste, environmental and species concerns.” – Teacher chaperone, January 2018
“Summer, Thank you for all of your work, patience, and information that you shared with my students. They are still talking about the plants they learned about, the harbor, and of course banana slugs. Thanks.” – Teacher, December 2017
Student Feedback
If your instructor from Team Pond were a Disney character, who would they be and why? “We think she would be Lucy from Despicable Me 2 and 3. We think that because they are both funny sometimes but serious at other times.”
“Summer (Thunder), Thank you for being one of our field instructors. Thank you for helping us learn about the great outdoors. That was important because a lot of the things you taught us we didn’t know before. We go to learn about so many cool things we never knew was possible. We would also [thank you] for staying determined and calm. We really enjoyed the solo walk it really helped us to see the world. Thank you Summer. Sincerely Ms. W fifth graders.” – Students from Team Thunder
“Thank you so much for taking [Team] Estuary on that beautiful hike down to the harbor…I learned a lot about estuarys and the history of Blakely Harbor. Most of all, I loved seeing the crabs and how well they can camouflage! Since I am home, I will continue to learn more about my towns history as well as encouraging other citizens to help our environment. Thank you so much for teaching so much stuff to us! I will always remember you!!” – Student from Team Estuary
If your instructor from Team Cloud were an animal, what would they be and why? “A deer because she’s very calm and graceful.”
“Dear Summer, You are very nature wise, you taught us to smell with our eyes!…” – Students from Team Thunder
Anonymous Peer Environmental Educator Feedback
“You are warm, patient and inspiring. I always feel heard when I’m around you. Thank you.”
“You’re always smiling and asking great questions. Your commitment to growing as an educator is so wonderful!”
“Summer, You are incredibly caring & sincere. The intentional thought you put into all you do is amazing.”
“Summer – your knowledge and ability to translate that in such a conscientious way is inspiring and super helpful.”
“Summer, thanks for your unflagging patience and grace in teaching! Your joy is apparent.”
“Thank you for being so fun, kind and ready to embrace adventure.”
“Summer, Thank you for speaking your truths and for forgiving others’ blunders. You are an essential member of this PLC.” (Professional Learning Community)
