Stewards of our Community

As part of our exploration into the factors that contribute to changes in the earth's surface, we’ve been investigating some of the devastating effects that weathering and erosion can have in our communities, particularly our shorelines. After learning about this, students really wanted to help those affected by this in some way. It was inspiring to see these young members of our community engage in a community outreach effort - not only initiating but leading the endeavor with such genuine pride and enthusiasm.

We began by identifying our range of action. We brainstormed ways that 9-10 year-olds can help support members of our broader community who are affected by the devastating effects of beach erosion. After learning about the specific challenges that Plum Island is facing, we decided we wanted to do something to help protect its shoreline, marine life, wildlife, and the homes and businesses in the surrounding communities. We came up with the idea of making ocean-inspired handmade products to sell at our annual Spofford Pond School Store event and through special orders from Hive families, with the hopes of raising funds to donate to an organization supporting these efforts. All proceeds from the sale of these gift cards and bookmarks will benefit the Plum Island Foundation, whose mission is ​​dedicated to fostering and protecting a sustainable Plum Island for all to enjoy.

We asked students to reflect on this experience - specifically, why is it important for members of our communities (including children) to have a voice and be engaged with issues happening in our communities? Here are some of their thoughts:

I feel like it's important to be aware of the things that are happening around us and to support people and important causes when it's needed. We should also try harder to protect the earth. - @GoatLover

It feels good to support an important cause because you know you are helping someone who needs it. More voices mean more possibilities. - @WaterBottle1

It feels really great to support a good cause. It's important for everyone to have a voice because even a small child can think of something worth supporting. - @Cheeto111

Sometimes kids can have great ideas and I believe we should be able to share our thoughts and ideas with our community and help support important causes. Even more important, we should be thinking about solutions. - @Wolverine12

It feels nice to help a cause. I've always enjoyed helping people with whatever their problem is. I feel everybody should be able to be allowed to help people with other challenges. I think people should be able to have a voice and know what's going on around them. People should try to pitch in, in whatever way they can. I think it's a great idea that we are making and selling cards to help support Plum Island. It's fun for the kids, nice for the buyers of our products, and it helps Plum Island. - @Choney

Everyone should look out for each other and have a voice. It's important for people to take a stand - not just adults, but kids too. Another way we could help our community is by picking up all the trash on our beaches. There are so many ways we can help out in our community. - @PickleKitty

I think it's important for everyone to have a voice and be engaged with the issues happening in our communities because there are many problems in the world and few people are noticing them. Also, helping others makes you a better person and the world a better place. We should also use our voices to encourage others to support important causes. - @21Savage