The Virginia Outdoors Foundation has awarded Woodbridge’s Freedom High School $25,000 to build a dedicated outdoor learning space, which is expected to open in the spring.
As the home for the Center for Environmental and Natural Sciences (CENS) program, Freedom High School will now be able to provide students in this program with a necessary outdoor learning space, a press release stated. CENS allows students to engage in lab and field science, interactive research and hands-on projects.
Freedom High currently has outdoor gardens and walking trails but lacks an outdoor learning space. According to a press release, the goal is the connect the existing trails with a learning space to “hopefully reduce chronic absenteeism and boost student engagement.”
“Many of our students face barriers such as poverty, food insecurities, violence, homelessness, limited access to the outdoors and poor health,” Jessica Doiron, Ed.D., coordinator of specialty programs and advanced academics at Freedom High, said. “Providing students with a dedicated outdoor learning space, where students can explore and make connections with living systems, will help break down those barriers as well as increase attendance, decrease behavior issues, support physical and mental health and build a sense of community.”
The Virginia Outdoors Foundation (VOF) aims to conserve land across the Commonwealth. Since it was founded in 1966, VOF has conserved more than 910,000 acres of land in 114 counties and cities. Earlier this month, VOF announced it was awarding nearly $1.7 million in grants to nine projects across the state; there’s an interactive dashboard available to see all of their conservation projects throughout their nearly 60-year history.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
