GREENVILLE, Pa.—Early Childhood/Special Education majors at Thiel College are now certified in two nationally renowned programs, Project Learning Tree and Project WILD.
Thiel College partners with Pymatuning State Park Environmental Education Specialists, Emily Borcz and Jared McGary, to make these dual certifications possible. These instructors provide opportunities for Thiel education majors to enter their teaching careers with abundant resources and knowledge in environmental education. All curriculum materials in these workshops are backed by sound educational practices, theory and represent the work of many professionals within the fields of education and natural resource management from across the country.
Project WILD is a hands-on, wildlife-focused conservation education curriculum and activity guide for K-12 educators and their students. It encourages students to develop an awareness and understanding of wildlife. This program encourages participants to take responsible actions towards people, wildlife, and wildlife habitat. One of the Project WILD lessons occurred in the Little Shenango River near the college campus. Students waded into the waters, made observations, conducted research, and collected samples.
Through hands-on, interdisciplinary activities, Project Learning Tree uses the forest as a “window on the world” to help young people learn how to think—not what to think—about complex environmental issues. Among the lessons, Thiel students observed habitat and identified trees from a kayak on the lake.
Project WILD seeks to increase teacher and student knowledge about wildlife and the environment. This program encourages participants to take responsible actions towards people, wildlife, and the environment.
One of the Project WILD lessons occurred in the Little Shenango River near the college campus. Students waded into the waters, made observations, conducted research and collected samples.
About Thiel College
Thiel College is an independent college founded in the Lutheran tradition. Located in Greenville, Pa., the College offers 60 majors and minors, 24 varsity sports, and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is also home to a new Master of Science in speech-language pathology and 2Master of Business Administration. Both master’s degree programs offer innovative and accelerated five-year paths which allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The speech-language pathology program also has an accelerated 15-month graduate-level program. The M.B.A. program also has a 12-month post-graduate program.A dedicated faculty paired with dynamic research and internship opportunities produce numerous graduate school and job placements. Coeducational from its beginnings, the College remains committed to combining tradition with innovation as it celebrates 150 years.