Although Glacial Hills Elementary’s classrooms emptied in May, learning opportunities did not stop for area children. The school offered its first summer camp this July, with 16 children participating in this year’s theme of engineering to improve people’s experience in nature.

“We had 16 students from Pope County, going into grades 3 to 7, sign up to learn about nature and the engineering process,” said Glacial Hills Elementary Director Jodee Lund. 

Nature Maker Camp was led by Nathan Lund, Jodee Lund, and Kristi Gruber. The students engaged in team-building activities while learning about engineering and the engineering process. They applied this knowledge to construct two bridges over the course of the one-week camp. Additionally, the students used the engineering process to design and build a musical wall for the Eagle’s Nest, the school’s outdoor learning center.

“Building anything requires a fair number of tools. Thanks to Jess Albertsen of Starbuck, who donated $1,500 worth of tools, this was possible,” said Lund.

“The kids learned how to research and design a bridge. They also used math skills to measure and cut. They worked collaboratively and took pride in their finished products knowing the items will be used,” said Lund.

“The summer camp was an opportunity for students from the area to unite. Whether the child attends Minnewaska Schools or Glacial Hills, they were able to meet new friends and learn about each other,” commented Lund.

The summer program was made possible through funding from the Minnesota DNR “No Child Left Inside Grant.”

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