This April, New Pioneers' Community Educator, Ivoree, and Board Chair, Michael, visited the 6th-grade science classroom at St. Joseph Middle School to lead students in an activity we like to call "Decisions, Decisions!"

Students started this activity with a group discussion about decision-making, then independently ranked a set of statements about the environment on a scale of 1-10, from strongly disagree to strongly agree. Next, to help students visualize the many viewpoints we might see in just a single classroom, students collectively shared their ranking by standing on a scale created on the classroom floor, then sharing their reasoning with a partner.

This activity opened students' eyes to the variety of opinions and beliefs a community may hold, and got them thinking about how a community must consider each of these viewpoints when making decisions. Then, students were split into two groups, and each was presented with a scenario that a local town council may be presented with. Using the knowledge from group discussions and considering all the viewpoints held, students had to come up with a solution to their presented issue that would make the community happy.

Finally, students presented their solutions and held a vote. Then, Michael led each class in a quick song about taking care of our planet!

This activity and "Mock Town Council Meeting" were the perfect way to help students celebrate Earth Day and boost their care for our environment. We thank Mrs. Brooks for inviting us!