Students at Thomas Paine Elementary to explore culture and nature through new partnership

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“By combining resources and expertise, we’re helping students see that nature, history, and science are all part of their everyday world.” Photo: Metro Services

URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Students at Thomas Paine Elementary School will soon step into a day of discovery as the Champaign County Forest Preserves, Urbana Park District, and Urbana School District #116 team up for a unique educational experience on Thursday, November 6.

The event will immerse students in cultural and environmental lessons designed to spark curiosity and connect them with the world around them. Activities will include explorations into the history of play, local wildlife, and citizen science, all led by educators from the Forest Preserves and Park District.

“This partnership shows the power of coming together to support our local schools,” said Stacey Clementz, Youth Programs Manager for the Forest Preserves. “By combining resources and expertise, we’re helping students see that nature, history, and science are all part of their everyday world.”

Organizers say the collaboration emphasizes the importance of community partnerships in education, helping children develop a deeper appreciation for their local environment and heritage.

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