In a heartening example of community-driven Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Lynchburg City Public Schools (LCS) has secured a $70,000 grant from the American Electric Power Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Appalachian Power Company. This two-year grant will enable sixth-grade students to engage in hands-on STEM learning through the James River Environmental Education Program, providing transformative experiences that blend education, environmental stewardship, and community impact.
A Grant That Makes a Difference
The Lynchburg City Schools Education Foundation (LCSEF) is the proud recipient of this generous grant, which marks a pivotal step in expanding STEM education opportunities for local students. Dawn Wise, Executive Director of LCSEF, highlighted the profound impact of this funding:
"We’re grateful for this generous gift from the AEP Foundation, which will help us improve the lives of students across Lynchburg through STEM education."
This initiative is particularly meaningful because many students have never experienced the James River, a vital natural resource that runs through their community. By providing access to this program, the grant helps students overcome fears, discover a love for nature, and build a sense of connection to their local environment.
The James River Environmental Education Program
The James River Association (JRA) has been a long-standing partner with LCS, working together for eight years to bring environmental education to life. This program, previously tailored for eighth-grade and high school Advanced Placement students, now focuses on sixth graders, a critical age for sparking curiosity and laying the groundwork for academic and personal growth.
What Students Will Experience:
- Abiotic Water Quality Testing: Students will measure factors like pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen to understand the river’s health.
- Biotic Sampling: Hands-on exploration of aquatic life will help students learn about biodiversity and the ecological significance of the James River.
- Watershed Education: Lessons will cover the interconnectedness of the James River and the Chesapeake Bay, illustrating the importance of preserving these ecosystems.
- Kayaking Adventures: A day-long field trip to Riveredge Park will allow students to kayak, offering a unique perspective on the river and its role in their community.
These activities are aligned with Virginia’s Standards of Learning, ensuring that the program reinforces classroom concepts while making them tangible and exciting.
Mentorship and Community Building
One of the program’s standout features is its mentorship component. High school students enrolled in AP Environmental Science will serve as mentors to the sixth graders, fostering a sense of community and continuity.
"Many of the high school students who will serve as mentors went on this same James River trip when they were in middle school," said LCS Instructional Supervisor Cat Phillips. "They’ll remember the impact it had on them and in turn help create meaningful experiences for their mentees."
This mentorship not only benefits the younger students but also reinforces the high schoolers’ own understanding of environmental science, creating a cycle of learning and leadership.
Professional Development for Teachers
The program’s impact extends beyond students, offering professional development opportunities for teachers. JRA educators will equip teachers with the tools and knowledge needed to integrate environmental topics into their curriculum. This ensures that the lessons learned during the field trips are reinforced in the classroom, creating a comprehensive educational experience.
Stewardship Projects: Turning Learning into Action
After their field trips, students will apply what they’ve learned by completing stewardship projects focused on community service or environmental restoration. These projects empower students to take ownership of their local environment, instilling a lifelong commitment to sustainability.
Rob Mann, Appalachian Power’s External Affairs Manager, emphasized the importance of this initiative:
"Lynchburg City Schools and its Education Foundation have always done an excellent job of showing the youth in our communities the importance of environmental stewardship and how they play a pivotal role in the future of our region."
The Broader Impact
This program is more than just an educational opportunity—it’s a model for how community partnerships and corporate philanthropy can drive meaningful change. By connecting students to their local environment and empowering them with STEM skills, the program lays the foundation for a generation of informed, engaged citizens who understand the importance of environmental stewardship.
The James River Environmental Education Program exemplifies the transformative power of CSR initiatives that invest in education, the environment, and the future of our communities. As Lynchburg students explore the James River, they’re not just learning about science—they’re discovering their potential to make a difference.
In the words of Dawn Wise:
"This program helps students overcome fears, try new things, and discover a love of nature."
And in doing so, it helps secure a brighter, more sustainable future for all.
Thank you for reading!
