Susan took that vision to the Wilds leadership, and the Wilds’ Danny Lough, Director of Conservation Education and Engagement, and Mary Beth Sills, Volunteer and Community Outreach Coordinator, developed a curriculum.

Students have three learning experiences in the Straker/Wilds program. A preparatory session with a Wilds educator at their home school prepares them for what they’ll experience. Then their class goes on a specially planned safari at the Wilds, where they encounter, say, the rhinos in up close and personal (and safe!) ways. Educators join the students at lunch, reinforcing and discussing safari learning.

Finally, Wilds educators provide a follow-up session, where, says Mary Beth Sills, games and activities bring all the learning objectives together for the students.

John McIntire fourth graders had their safari tour this month, and Principal Abbey Achauer reports that students had a great time.

The Straker Foundation is proud to fund this creative initiative, engaging students in exploring nature and highlighting a Muskingum County treasure.