Do you ever wish that some kind, diligent elves would magically appear on our island and pick up all the litter that you see on roadsides or the beach? Lopez Elementary students are volunteering to be such elves for you and the Lopez community.
This spring, Lopez School fifth-graders offer the service of beach or neighborhood clean-up to raise funds for the annual study trip to Islandwood. Islandwood is an outdoor learning center, located on Bainbridge Island, designed to provide learning experiences that inspire life-long environmental and community stewardship.
“Students will be immersed in Islandwood’s magical, natural 255-acre outdoor classroom for four days. Lopez Elementary students, in their fifth years, have been offered this wonderful educational opportunity, and I’m very excited to be leading our great group of students from Lopez this year,” said Lorri Swanson, the Lopez Elementary science/social studies teacher.
In the past students and parents have come up with different fundraising ideas to help make the trip more affordable to all. Two years ago when students did beach or neighborhood clean-up, it was a big success, with the community requesting the service and contributing funds to support the students’ effort. Swanson is excited to do island clean-up again because it combines being outdoors with environmental stewardship and community service.
Swanson and the 17 fifth- graders have already raised $1,200 thus far. The students along with their parents have the goal to raise an additional $2,300 with support from the community to bring the cost of the Islandwood trip down to $75 per student. The trip is scheduled for June 8 through11 this year.
The students, along with volunteer parent chaperones, are planning to go to various roadsides and beaches to pick up objects that do not belong there. For contributions of $125 or more, the group is willing to offer its clean-up service in a neighborhood or area of the contributors’ choosing. You may also donate any amount or sponsor one student for a $25 pledge. Any contribution is appreciated.
“It will be fun to work with friends on beach cleanup. And I can’t wait to go to Islandwood. I heard from my older brother and friends who have gone that it was the best, field trip by far, and they learned so much,” said Sara Greacen, a Lopez School student.
To contribute or pledge your support, clip out the donation form in the newspaper or access it on our website, www.lopezislandschool.org. Mail donation to Lopez Island School District, Attn: Lorri Swanson 86 School Road, Lopez Island, WA 98261. If you have any questions, contact Swanson at 468-2202 ext. 2107 or email lswanson@lopez.k12.wa.us.
