Kellogg FIELD School News
We’re grateful for the bit of snow on the ground today! Our Chickadees and Magpies geared up for a cross country ski lesson with Galen Johnston of @apunordicskicenter We had many happy children at the end of their day, feeling excited for new found abilities and Alaskan ways to play. Our Eagles also got some time with him before their instructor, @alliepratt97 took them out into the woods herself. #crosscountryskiing #ourdooreducation #placebasededucation #alaskanchildhood #lifeinalaska @ Palmer, Alaska
Here’s a video of pilot Robert with Pollux Aviation Ltd. taking off after his amazing visit to KFS yesterday!
With puppies grunting and a helicopter whooshing overhead, Monday, November 18th, was an especially exciting day at Kellogg FIELD School! To culminate their Fall Session studies on Mapping, Orienteering, and Wayfinding, our Eagles (10-11-year olds) were surprised by their FIELD School Instructor, and MSOEE student Allie Pratt, with two incredible guest presentations.
Just before 10am, as Kellogg FIELD School students were still outside enjoying the fresh snow, the walloping rumble of a helicopter was heard overhead. It flew directly over our campus, looped around, and stunned all viewers when it landed in the front yard of our Schoolhouse! Robert Kozakiewicz, a pilot with Pollux Aviation Ltd., flew an R22 to FIELD School, to give students an up-close look at the GPS system he uses to fly. He spent almost an hour teaching the students how helicopters work and how he safely navigates flights. Students were enthralled with what he had to share, taking in his every word, and asking thoughtful questions. Take-off was no less impressive than landing, with the main rotter blade kicking snow into our faces as he hovered above the play yard, before disappearing into the sky.
That afternoon, a group from Turning Heads Kennel accompanied by musher Scott Janssen, further enchanted FIELD school students with stories of life on the Iditarod Trail, a visit from two 8-year-old sled dogs, and a litter of 10-day-old Alaskan Husky puppies! Their visit engaged student’s understanding of the purpose and necessity of all the gear needed to safely run a dog team, with the opportunity to see and feel much of the gear. The students got to help dress one of the dogs in all its gear as if it was getting ready to go out with its team to train or run the Iditarod Trail. The visit culminated, in snuggling the puppies, who made guest appearances in the classes of our younger students that morning. The handlers from Turning Heads shared that it was great socialization for the puppies and given the delight it brought all of FIELD School, it was a win-win!
This day is a prime example of the dynamic learning taking place at Kellogg FIELD School, both for the students and the FIELD School Instructors/MSOEE Students. Allie Pratt's vision and determination in facilitating this offering to her students exemplified engaged education. The experiences of the day highlighted the Kellogg FIELD School Benchmark: Our Shared Alaska Experience, by demonstrating cultural practices popular in Alaska, and appreciating the uniquenesses of this place we call home. Further, it reinforced our benchmark Outdoor Pursuits; teaching students about the joy and health benefits of outdoor activity, while learning practices of care of gear and creatures.
MANY THANKS to the team of people who gave time, energy, and expertise to make this amazing learning opportunity happen!
Allie Pratt- Alaska Pacific University (Master of Science in Outdoor and Environmental Education)/Kellogg FIELD School Instructor
Sarge & Rachel- Handlers at Turning Heads Kennel
Robert Kozakiewicz- Pilot with Pollux Aviation Ltd.
Scott & Debby Janssen- Dog Mushers The Mushin' Mortician
Stephanie Harrod- Alaska Pacific University (Compliance and Risk Management Officer)
Ted Kincaid- Alaska Pacific University (Photographer)
What an incredible experience for everyone involved!
Winter registration is open for Kellogg FIELD School! We have space in our classes for students ages 8-13. If you're interested in enrolling your homeschooler in an adventurous and dynamic program emphasizing science, community, culture, and outdoor education, we'd be happy to share what Kellogg FIELD School has to offer!
Good Job! Shared on the Palmer Alaska Buzz Group!
Great action shot!
Good Job! Shared on the Palmer Alaska Buzz Group!
Now it's easier to send Kellogg FIELD School a message.
Kellogg FIELD School students have been actively engaged in a wide variety of creative endeavors, nature adventures, dynamic lessons, science experiments, active exploration, friendship-making, unique field trips, and all-around lively learning! And, we're just over halfway through our Fall Session!
The rain did not hinder our Fall Festival! Delicious homemade soup, stews, and breads were shared. Facepainting, apple pressing, and lantern making were enjoyed by many. Overall a wonderful atmosphere of merriment!
Oh my goodness, love seeing some of my favorite people!! ❤️
Looks like so much fun
Kellogg FIELD School updated their address.
Kellogg FIELD School updated their phone number.
Kellogg FIELD School updated their phone number.
We have a few spaces left for students ages 6-11. If you or someone you know is interested in a dynamic outdoor, place-based education opportunity for homeschooled children, please reach out with any questions and for registration information. We'd love to share this experience with you!
solaughlin@alaskapacific.edu
Shivonne, Jeffery
It would be awesome if you guys could do a high school class. My son loved doing this.
John Johnerson how cool is this?
Kellogg FIELD School updated their phone number.
Dear Field School Families,
I hope you have been having a lovely summer so far and that you are enjoying the great outdoor life we are so fortunate to have available to us. I wanted to let you know that we have finalized our search for a new Field School Coordinator and the hiring process from main campus is now fully completed.
It was not an easy decision. There were many great candidates. Some were new to us and some were from within our KFS community already.Having made that difficult decision, we feel very confident about the one we made and believe she will be a great asset and resource to our kids, parents and graduate students. Her name is Shannon O'Laughlin and a letter follows from her so that he may introduce herself to you. She will step into the role officially on July first. I know she is eager to get going and to meet all of you.
Feel free to reach out to me with any questions at any time at 907-982-3122
-Steve Rubinstein
****Her letter follows here:
Greetings FIELD School Families,
Steve has offered me the opportunity to introduce myself to you as the new Kellogg Field School Coordinator. My name is Shannon O’Laughlin and I come to the Field School with a rich background in education; as a child of an educator, a teacher, a mentor, and a school administrator.
My first teaching experience after receiving my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from California State University Chico, was as an English Language Development teacher. I taught 110 children daily; always striving to meet their educational and emotional needs. After two years with that program, I secured a job at a Waldorf charter school teaching Grade 2. The Waldorf curriculum was alive and engaging and completely captivated me. I went on to pursue my Waldorf Teaching Certificate through the Rudolf Steiner College, while continuing to teach my class of students. After an incredible seven year journey, I graduated my class from Grade 8. They’re now young adults and doing amazing things with their lives!
At that time, I decided to take a year off to renew myself and explore other countries, which I was incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to do. During that year, I was also called to adult education in the Waldorf sector. A highlight of my personal and professional life was being invited to present at the Humanizing Education Conference in Mumbai, India. I was also invited to Rudolf Steiner College as adjunct faculty for summer teacher training. To my surprise, I found myself greatly enjoying working with adults.
I applied for, and received a position in administration as the Education Director at the Waldorf charter where I had been a teacher. In this capacity, I served as the supervisor of the teaching staff, while ensuring we were upholding the pedagogy. Additionally I attended to numerous administrative tasks. During my time as Education Director I went back to school and received my Administrative Credential from Chico State.
I am experienced in curriculum design and lesson implementation, using a wide variety of engaging teaching techniques. I have a strong sense for meeting the developmental needs of each individual child; embracing and expanding their unique capacities. I feel I have knowledge, skill, and warmth that will enrich the Field School program. And, I have a great curiosity and openness to LEARNING! I will work closely with Steve, the students, other Kellogg Campus staff and faculty in Outdoor Education for their expertise in outdoor education as well as with Field School parents for all that Alaska has to offer as a classroom. I have had direct experience with the value of building and maintaining relationships for an enriching educational experience, I am hopeful that we form strong partnerships that will further augment this already dynamic program.
And a bit about me personally. I was born and raised in Northern California. My childhood was rich with agriculture, crafting, and musical theatre. Last summer I began yearning for a big change; a grand adventure. This Winter, my boyfriend and I moved from our hometown in Northern California to Sutton. I’m taken with the majestic beauty of Alaska and the kindness of people here. I’m out exploring the vastness at every opportunity. I’m a handworker who loves sewing, knitting, and felting most. I derive great joy in flowers. I love to grow them, give them, and get them. It’s quite a learning curve, but I do believe I will be successful in having some incredible flowers in my yard this first summer in Alaska. And, I’m a dog lover! My precious pug of 15 years was my classroom pet and office companion. These days I keep the company of an incredibly agile and sweet two year old Carolina dog, Homer, and a spunky six month old Catahoula/German Shepherd, Fernie, with a knack for snuggling.
I will begin my work with the Field School in July, and would welcome the opportunity to meet you and your child(ren) before classes start in September!
Warmly,
Shannon
Shannon! What a beautiful place to have landed. They are so fortunate to have you. We are so grateful for all you have sown for Blue Oak. Onward, upward!!! 😘
Dreams and Dreamy
Thank you for your welcomes! I’m in day two and already feel so grateful for being part of the FIELD School. I look forward to getting to know you and your children!
Welcome! We can't wait to meet you 🙂
Welcome! Many of our families have a love of Waldorf education, personally I am most excited that you love felting:)! Bring on all the Waldorf crafts!
Welcome Ms. Shannon 🌸 Our family looks forward to making your acquaintance!
The School House is locked up for the summer, getting ready for new and returning faces in September. Here's a flashback to Chickadees and Owls at Mat-River Park for their last day of class. Thank you Backcountry Bike & Ski for an amazing culmination to Bike Week! Hope you all enjoy our incredible Alaskan spring and summer 🌻💚 #kelloggfieldschool #placebasededucation #environmentaled #getoutside #naturekids #gokidsgo
Long time no post! We're wrapping up spring session this week at KFS. Sunshine, clouds, fields clear of snow and lots of fun scheduled for this week! For those that didn't get the memo--Party. Friday May 3, 10-1. Bring your favorite taco topping!
Don't forget! Tomorrow is our Welcome to Winter soup potluck. We provide the soup and you can bring a side to share. 12:30 at the School House, all are welcome. See you there!
Skiing into the winter break like....
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Things have been awfully quiet here at the Kellogg Campus without our students, but we're already gearing up for the winter session starting January 28. We still have a few spaces available - tell your friends!
