2020-2021

An Outdoor Learning Environment transforms early childhood spaces through research inspired designs that increase physical activity and connection with the natural world. The initiative adds design elements (looping pathways, vegetable gardens, outdoor learning settings, etc.) to enable early childhood children to be active, learn in nature, and develop motor skills. It has received national attention as an innovative and evidence-based approach to increasing childhood physical activity and food awareness. Additionally, learning occurs both indoors and out. An outdoor environment should be a place to run, play, and learn. The planning has begun to design a safe outdoor space to promote learning, engagement, and active play at Menchaca ECC to be completed this Fall. This area will be an outdoor environment with a variety of activities and learning experiences that will serve as extensions of the indoor learning environment. Learning time in our outdoor space provides limitless options. We can enhance our activities by bringing students outdoors and using natural elements to teach concepts. The following are examples of how we can enhance learning by utilizing our outdoor environment:

Science: Use your surroundings to discuss scientific concepts, such as the water cycle, plant species, or solar power. Discuss hydropower by using miniature tools to harness the power of water at the water table.

Math:  Use the environment and measure cups of dirt or diameters of tree trunks. Discuss patterns by using those found in nature. You can also use tools to measure field or playing space for different sports.

Language Arts: Take children outdoors for story time—especially when reading a story that discusses wind, sunshine, or other natural elements. Provide books that help children  identify wildlife in your outdoor space. If you plant a garden, ask them to create labels for the different flowers, herbs, or vegetables.

Creative Writing: Use the outdoors as a prompt for creative-writing topics. For example, have school-age children go outside and spend time watching the clouds. They can write and illustrate a story about the images they find there.

Menchaca Early Childhood Center Principal, Mrs. Rebecca Delgado-Herrera, has been selected and appointed to Region 20 The Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA) Board as Treasurer. TEPSA, has served Texas Pre-K to 8th Grade school leaders since 1917 and has more than 5,900 members who direct the activities of more than 3 million school children. TEPSA members meet regularly throughout the year for training, networking, and support. TEPSA Executive Director Harley Eckhart said, “TEPSA’s Boards advance the association’s mission and build leadership capacity to ensure Texas students and teachers are successful.” We’re proud of Mrs. Herrera for receiving this honor and for the attention it brings to SISD as she helps contribute to the success of leaders throughout Region 20.

Additionally, Mrs. Herrera has also been selected as the San Antonio Representative for the Texas Association of Administrators and Supervisors of Programs for Young Children where the focus is on promoting high-quality learning by connecting practice, policy, and research. Mrs. Herrera and Menchaca’s ability to meet national standards of quality are based on a strong program with tools that provide the best learning experiences for young children, and provide student educators with the highest quality professional preparation.