Winter Survival

One of the programs offered at Osborne is the Winter Survival Course. During this class, students are taught how to be prepared for a survival situation, what to do if they become lost, and what human needs are most important. The highlight of the class is giving students the opportunitity to work in teams to build real life debri survival shelters. Shelter building has been around for centuries in many different cultures, Environmental Educator/Writer  David Sobel touches on the value of forts and shelters in his book: Children's Special Places: Exploring the Role of Forts, Dens and Bush Houses in Middle Childhood.  Sobel speaks fort building is a "crucially important way children ages 8-11 explore the landscape and bond with the natural environment."

In December, after the Central 6th grade finished their Winter Survival Class , their teacher Mr. Bormann had these reflections.  "As we made our way into the woods, I couldn't help but notice the beauty of it all. At first I noticed the snow nestled in a slumber like state, highliting every branch that reached out to touch us..but I was not just taken back by the beauty of my surroundings, but by the beauty of the child's mind in the learning process. It really is incredible.  Seeing young adults become sparked by a positive hands on learning experience really does bring a great sense of satisfaction as an educator...Brian told the kids this experience will probably be one they remember when they graduate.  I know I'll never forget it."

The link below will take you to Mr. Bormann's Blog, with a video of the kids at Osborne and his reflections included:  Mr. Bormann's Winter Surival Reflections