FELTON, DE – Governor John Carney, DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin, and Delaware Department of Education Secretary Susan Bunting joined a group of third-graders and their families from South Dover, W. Reily Brown, and Star Hill elementary schools, for the 4th annual Delaware Outdoor Family – Governor’s Campout at Killens Pond State Park over the weekend.
The Governor’s Campout, part of Great Outdoors Month, offers the opportunity for families to become more familiar with camping, and helps to strengthen the relationship between family members, the environment, parks, and the community. This year, DNREC’s Division of Parks & Recreation partnered with the Delaware Department of Education (DDOE), to focus on the importance of reading and science. The event was linked to the state Department of Education’s Next Generation Science Standards implementation, and the Governor’s and DDOE’s literacy initiative.
“Third grade literacy is critical to the future success of our students,” said Governor Carney. “This is the time when students shift from the fundamentals of learning how to read, to reading to learn. I’m proud we can launch our literacy plan while inspiring the next generation of park enthusiasts. Improving literacy and science education will better prepare Delaware students for success.”
“Getting young people outdoors is critical for their health and well-being,” said Secretary Garvin. “At the same time, science education and reading prepare Delaware’s youth for science careers, emphasizes their role in keeping our environment healthy, and helps our young people continue to be good environmental stewards.”
“Students need to develop strong literacy skills in order to successfully absorb information in math, science, social studies, the arts and every other subject,” said Secretary Bunting. “Outside the classroom, students can use the literacy and scientific skills they’ve acquired in outdoor explorations to better engage with their families, their environment, and their communities.”
Students and their families, teachers, staff, and others, participated in night hikes, stargazing, history and other programs over the weekend. They also took time out to enjoy the traditional camping treat, s’mores over a campfire.
Great Outdoors Month is a national celebration of state and national parks across the country. It includes events such as Capital Campouts, Governor’s Campouts, National Trails Day, National Get Outdoors Day, and the Great American Campout.
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~ DNREC