Sky Islands by Dr. Shari Popen Sky Islands student bike ride. T
here’s no good reason to dread the start of the next school year, because Sky Islands Environ-
mental High School is building a reputation for its exceptional teach- ing and learning environment. Small classes and smart teachers keep stu- dents returning each year, and parents onboard with their education. Their integrated curriculum is guided by layers of the regional ecosystem—its
www.thefloatingstoneinn.com
history, cultures, arts, archaeology and natural patterns—linked to the larger world. With students in grades 9-12, Sky
Islands is entering its fourth year as Tucson’s “green” school. At its heart is a school culture that promotes trust, respect and responsibility—a vibrant network in which students connect to each other and learn to take owner- ship of their school and their learning.
As the school settled into its new
location on 17 acres along the Rillito River this past year, students installed raptor boxes onsite with the help of Arborist Juan Barba and Bartlett Tree Experts; cycled Saguaro Park East with Trips for Kids; camped at Rose Can- yon; and climbed Arizona’s Vista Point on Mt Lemmon with Pangea Mountain Guides. Proudly, four Sky Islanders (out of 12 spots) were selected to par- ticipate with Southwest Conservation Corps as 2011 summer interns. The Ramada guest series at the
Opening Party u July 9th, 5-9pm
Call to RSVP and celebrate the opening of our chlorine-free, water wellness center.
Alkaline Living Workshop July 24-29 Complimentary healthcare practitioners wanted.
16 Calle Iglesia, Tubac AZ u 520.398.3193 or 888.767.2325
weekly school council meetings featured Tucson’s Who’s Who—from Ben’s Bells to BICAS, Weedwhackers, “Treetures,” Pan Dulce, Za Boom Ba!, SunTran and The Solar Store. Why is Sky Islands such a well-
kept secret? Perhaps it’s because the school keeps its head down and its heart in the game—transforming the school year into a truly transformative educational experience. This year Sky Islands has added two
new teachers and offers two new classes: Introduction to Japanese and Photojour- nalism. There are camping trips to New Mexicoin the works, too. And, it’s all free! Sky Islands is now enrolling for the fall. Come in or call to save a seat or a place on the next school hike.
Dr. Shari Popen is the director of Sky Islands, 3101 N. Sabino Canyon Rd., Tucson. For more information call 520-382-9210, email Director@
skyislands.org or visit
SkyIslands.org. See ad, page 13.
8 Tucson
Public High School is Tucson’s Best Kept Secret
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