Hands-on education

The AP Environmental class, led by teacher Jill Jeffrey, started in Monroe-Woodbury High School in the 2016 school year.
At the end of the first year, M-W School Board President Jon Huberth brought the school’s attention to the Moodna Creek Watershed Intermunicipal Council small grant program, which encourages educational experiences for students.
M-W applied last year and received funding for supplies permitting the class to perform various water tests on Walton Lake in Monroe during the fall and spring.
The class then compiled a comparison study for Walton Lake based on the students’ results.
The AP Environmental class received another grant this year and continued the water analysis. The class added Earl Reservoir in Highand Mills and changed to just a spring comparison of the two lakes.
The students presented their preliminary findings to the Moodna Creek Council in April and will present their final paper to the council in July.
What was tested
The following tests were performed:
Total dissolved solids (TDS), pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, nitrate concentration, phosphate concentration, salinity and coliform bacteria test.
Although these are preliminary studies that still need further investigation, the students concluded from their results that both locations appear to be healthy bodies of water.
Lasting impact
"We will be re-applying for the grant to continue the research, hopefully expand the testing locations and continue to inspire students to be interested in the environment," Jeffrey said. "The students were given the opportunity to meet some wonderful people and have really appreciated all the help provided by environmentalist Andy Lawrence and the Council members."
Only after three years since the class has been established, three M-W students have selected to further their education and attend the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry at Syracuse.
Hands-on education
In addition, the high school will be forming a science club with the emphasis on environmental issues.
“This is a perfect example of our local community and school district getting together to expand student opportunities," Hubert said. "Andy Lawrence is a local environmentalist and was the driving force behind making this happen. Hands-on education outside the traditional classroom can really spark curiosity, and involvement like Andy’s is so appreciated."