The gateway to Return of the Natives programs is opened when a classroom teacher participates in one of our professional development workshops.  Annually, RON presents workshops generally take place early in the school year:

1.  RON Workshop:  Participants learn the basics of native plant restoration, greenhouse propagation, and school garden planning in addition to receiving a binder of helpful resources. Next workshop is anticipated in the spring of 2012.

2.  Cycle of Restoration Workshop:  This workshop is for Seaside and Marina teachers who participate in the Cycle of Restoration activities with their students.  The workshop is followed by RON support in the classroom and field trips.  Group size is limited and by invitation only.

3.  Salinas Creeks to the Bay:  Teachers from Salinas are invited to participate in a year long workshop that include RON staff visits to the classroom and field trips to the Creeks of Salinas.  Teachers receive stipends for their participation and are able to purchase Continuing Education Units.

4.  From our Valley to the Bay:  Every summer, RON staff works with South Monterey County Migrant Education teachers and their students in a professional development program sponsored by the Monterey County Office of Education.  Through exciting field trips and classroom visits, teachers and students alike learn that what happens in the upper watershed can affect the Monterey Bay.

5. School Garden Workshop:  Participants learn how to plan, construct and implement a school garden.  This workshop is presented in partnership with CAFF, the Community Alliance with Family Farmers.

For more information on RON's Professional Development Opportunities contact:

Emily Smith, RON School's Coordinator esmith@csumb.edu 831-582-3687

Laura Lee Lienk, RON Director  llienk@csumb.edu  831-582-3689

Posted by Emily Smith on Aug 16, 2011 -