FernLeaf's teachers rely on community partners, like Defenders of Wildlife, to assist with more in depth, hands on and specialized training and teaching of our students during their Project Based Learning units. Project based learning is one of the ways FernLeaf creates a rich learning environment which is one of FernLeaf's Fundamentals. Learn more about how FernLeaf creates rich learning environments for ALL of our students HERE.
Here's an excerpt from a blog post written by Tracy Davids of "Defenders of Wildlife:"
"In 2023, we leveraged our partnership with TRBN to support another partner, FernLeaf Community Charter School in Fletcher, North Carolina, to begin restoring its riparian area. Students at FernLeaf are immersed in project-based experiential learning with a focus on outdoor environmental education. FernLeaf engages in community partnerships, providing students with unique hands-on learning experiences while also promoting environmental awareness and conservation. FernLeaf’s learning model was an appropriate match for a TRBN grant, and with Defenders’ support, the school received funding for a river campus restoration project. This project will benefit wildlife and habitats, while also serving as an outdoor classroom."
Check out this short interview with FernLeaf's 5th & 6th grade science teacher Emily Moreno!
And another short interview with FernLeaf's environmental education teacher Ryan Lubbers.
What an INCREDIBLE and inspiring project our students and teachers get to be a part of! Thank you Defenders!
The focus on community partnerships in project-based learning is such a powerful approach. It creates real-world connections for students and shows how collaboration can enrich education. I see a similar value in how tools like the Frontend Interview Handbook https://frontendlead.com/handbook/introduction support individuals preparing for their careers. Just like students benefit from partnerships to deepen their understanding, developers gain confidence and skills by accessing structured resources. Both emphasize the importance of bridging theory with practical experience to achieve meaningful outcomes. It’s inspiring to see how collaboration, whether in education or tech, fosters growth and builds stronger, more capable communities.