Love for the Natural World
A child with a strong interest in animal life, the outdoors and science will thrive in the Environmental Science and Technology Program at Niemes Elementary. Our innovative magnet program encourages the student's love for the natural world and empowers them to become an active participant in the stewardship of their planet.
In addition to the state-of-the-art science lab, Niemes Elementary has a large outdoor teaching area in their one-acre Nature Center and Garden complex. Science and classroom teachers have plenty of space to instruct students in the beautiful outdoor setting as they look across the wide variety of California native plants from the seating stones in the amphitheater of the outdoor classroom. Students study the plants and ecosystems of the California deserts, mountains chaparral, pine forests and meadows as they meander down paths through each area. Wireless laptops access the internet within the nature center as students research plant and animal life cycles and interconnections. Raised bed gardens are also part of the complex with each grade level choosing the type of organic plants they wish to cultivate and harvest.
Emblazoned on the back of each Niemes T-Shirt is the motto "We’re Green" and as an environmental science and technology magnet school, staff and students know it means much more then gardening alone. Through multi-curricular studies on the environmental theme, students have come to understand that the relationship between humans and the natural world around them can impact the future of the planet and the people who inhabit it. Students implement service projects that inform, educate and make a difference in their community, and the entire school continues to take steps to reduce the effects of global warming. Student recycle and compost waste, reuse containers and paper, work to minimize consumption and staff members support each other in carpooling to work. At Niemes the students, staff and community understand that a good education and good stewardship of our planet will help to bring a promising future for everyone.
Make a Difference
Niemes Elementary is proud to be on the cutting edge of environmental education and in alignment with the State of California's emphasis on environmental principles. Our students develop awareness of the interconnection of all species and ecosystems on our planet through integration of environmental science and technology across all subject areas. Kindergarten through sixth grade students explore these concepts in the general education classroom, in our Environmental Science Laboratory and Outdoor Garden Habitat, and in the community in which they reside.
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Investigate
Field trips, research explorations, and community projects are some of the ways classes explore our natural world. Participation in community gardens and recycling projects teach our young people about the importance of responsibility and ownership of their ideals.
Research
Utilizing state-of-the-art technology equipment and instruction in our computer laboratory and in-classroom technology centers, students collect data, connect to the world, and develop high quality informational presentations to share with others. Students make worldwide connections with scientists and other students as they share and exchange knowledge about their world, while enhancing their technology skills.
Program Features
• Environmental science and technology curriculum integrated into all subject areas
• Environmental science laboratory
• Outdoor garden habitat
• State-of-the-art technology equipment, programs and high speed internet
• In-classroom technology centers
• Computer laboratory
• After school environmental and technology program
• Green school ecology/ Recycling program
• Community recycling
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