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Charlotte Bruchey’s Gold Award Project Revitalizes Outdoor Learning at Auten Road Intermediate School
Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey proudly celebrates Charlotte Bruchey for her exceptional Gold Award project, which has transformed outdoor learning at Auten Road Intermediate School (ARIS). Charlotte’s initiative involved building a new outdoor classroom, refurbishing an existing one, and creating comprehensive lesson plans aligned with the New Jersey State Curriculum.
Inspired by a memorable yet challenging experience at ARIS during her time as a student, Charlotte was determined to revitalize the outdoor classrooms to better serve the school community. Her project not only provided a functional and engaging outdoor learning space but also integrated her passions for education and the outdoors.
"I wanted to create something that would be useful and enjoyable for both teachers and students," Charlotte explained. "Working closely with the teachers at ARIS ensured that the classrooms and lesson plans would meet their needs and be a valuable resource."
Charlotte’s project involved demolishing a preexisting, deteriorated outdoor classroom and refurbishing another that was still in good condition. She added mulch paths for easier access and created six varied lesson plans to ensure that all subjects could benefit from the outdoor space. Her dedication to the project included collaborating with ARIS teachers and incorporating feedback to optimize the design and functionality of the classrooms.
"Being a Girl Scout is truly about the embodiment of sisterhood. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of a community passionate about inspiring positive change and making a difference in the world," Charlotte shared. "My experiences in scouting have shaped my career and life goals, instilling in me a passion for education and environmental stewardship."
To ensure the sustainability of her project, Charlotte has arranged for regular upkeep sessions through her Girl Scout service unit. The Girl Scouts will perform light maintenance in the fall and spring to keep the classrooms in good condition. Additionally, the lesson plans and construction designs are applicable to other schools, encouraging broader adoption of outdoor learning environments.
"I hope my work at ARIS will inspire other students and scouts to take an interest in environmental education and explore the variety of options that come with it," Charlotte said. "Earning my Gold Award has given me an incredible sense of fulfillment and accomplishment."
Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey congratulates Charlotte Bruchey on her outstanding achievement and her dedication to enhancing outdoor education.
September 18, 2024
