Our newest way to make learning cool uses nature, photography, and fun to build confidence, skills, and community for local youth. During five Saturdays, this past fall, award-winning and homegrown African American photographer, Jay "Oak Tree" Jervis guided students on their mission to capture Changes (to both them and their environments). Equipped with cameras and curiosity, they explored known and new green spaces in Lake County. This deep dive into the digital humanities connects visual documentation with student's unique perspectives of the world around them.
Led by Dr Rita "Wiggly Worm" Sacay and Diane "American White Pelican" Lewis, students learned some of the rich history of Waukegan and created 6-Word Memoirs to share their insights and feelings in a form more powerful than a tweet! Our emerging photographers celebrated success with families and friends. Our next PTP winter session runs from January 28 to March 11.
GETTING TO KNOW BADGER
Inquisitive, thoughtful, and caring, 6th grade Badger is a great Planet Protector!. His careful listening helps him participate fully, ask deep questions, and express empathy. During Representative Brad Schneider’s CLE visit last summer, he and another nature buddy improvised a skit representing his class. Badger also played key leadership roles during the fall PTP, where he was awarded for perfect attendance. How’s that for being cool?
2022 IN REVIEW: SPARKING CHANGE
CLE’s unique model centers on educating children, celebrating nature, inspiring well-being, championing futures, engaging families, cultivating leaders, and building community. This summer, CLE’s first Digital Fellow, award-winning filmmaker Emmel Williams, helped us build community by making short promotional pieces highlighting several area nonprofits.
Williams spearheaded Lights! Camera! Take Action (LCTA) which showcases short films and invites local leaders to guide community conversations and prompt civic action around pressing social issues such as food equity. Williams fellowship was made possible through our collaboration with Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods and the College of Lake County.
Last year, family engagement increased using our innovative system that matches parent talents with CLE’s biggest needs. Our Parent & Community Navigator helped organize parents who volunteered over 200 hours! Parents also organized several fundraisers that raised a record $3,200!!! Interested volunteers can email coollearningexperience@gmail.com.
BARBARA WALLER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Before 2022 moves into our rearview We want to acknowledge all that folks do! Kudos to amazing partners and friends (old and new), Add in great funders, teachers, and volunteers, too. It took a team to mark year 15 of celebrating children, friends, learning, and all things green. Did you know tutoring and photography aren’t just for us? Everyone is welcome to CLE Plus! Check out e-news every quarter in 2023 for stories that’s positively CLE!
