In the News

May 22, 2007

Westport third-graders enjoying innovative science program

WESTPORT — With a $2,000 grant to work with, all third-grade classes in Westport are taking part in a new science curriculum through the Lloyd Center.

Supported by the Westport Arts Council through a $2,000 grant from the Helen E. Ellis Charitable Trust (administered by the Bank of America), "Feathery Focus" is making science fun for young students. In addition, assessment tests show that the Lloyd Center program effectively teaches children scientific concepts, and thus may improve student performance on the MCAS and other standardized testing.

The Feathery Focus curiculum is designed to provide elementary students and their teachers with a yearlong curriculum of hands-on activities. It captures the imagination of students, opening the door to lessons about other aspects of the natural world. Lloyd Center staff members have found that once students become engaged in studying the dynamic ecology of birds, they turn naturally to exploring issues of land conservation, food chains, adaptations, seasons and migration patterns.

Additional benefits of the program are taking students out of the classroom to build awareness of their own schoolyard and community and providing role models for adult careers and hobbies.

The Helen E. Ellis Charitable Trust provides funding for the Westport Arts Council to make awards for projects that benefit Westport residents. Helen Ellis, an artist and a dedicated educator, was a resident of Westport for over 50 years. Her naturalistic woodcarvings were displayed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. After she died, the proceeds of her estate were used to establish the charitable trust.

The Trust supports Ms. Ellis' dream of inspiring others to develop their creative talents. The Westport Arts Council is a group of volunteers appointed by the Westport selectmen to administer grants received by the town each year.

Founded in 1978 and situated with its headquarters and spectacular nature preserve overlooking the scenic Slocum River estuary in Dartmouth, the Lloyd Center for the Environment has achieved a well-earned reputation for excellence in environmental research and education.