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Window of Opportunity Grant Project

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Socrates Academy Public Charter School

3909 Weddington Rd, Matthews, NC 28105

Mecklenburg County

Project: Bird & Pollinator Garden

Application Request/Project Summary:

Bird and Wildlife Garden with an Educational Focus

The Bird and Wildlife Garden will be a dedicated space on campus in front of our modular building designed to attract and sustain local bird, insect, and wildlife species. This garden will feature birdhouses, bird feeders, and insect hotels, supporting habitats for a diverse range of species and enriching the campus's natural ecosystem. Alongside the habitats, botanical signage and educational plaques will be installed to provide students with learning opportunities about native plants, local wildlife, and their interdependencies.

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Through this project, students will have the chance to observe local fauna up close, understand the role of pollinators, and appreciate the importance of biodiversity. Educational signage will display interesting facts about each species and plant in the garden. QR codes on these plaques will link to further digital resources, offering students deeper, tech-integrated learning experiences. This project encourages ecological stewardship while integrating science, biology, and environmental education into our curriculum.

 

This designated area on the school campus will serve as the Bird and Wildlife Garden. This space is accessible to all students and faculty, making it ideal for educational activities, nature studies, and classroom projects.

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Key Learnings:

  • Ecosystem Dynamics: Students will learn about local birds, insects, and the roles these species play within the ecosystem. Observing firsthand how these animals interact with plants and habitats fosters ecological literacy and an appreciation for biodiversity.

  • Environmental Stewardship: Through participation in habitat creation and maintenance, students develop responsibility for wildlife conservation and sustainability practices.

  • STEM Integration: The QR code-linked resources will allow students to explore scientific content on plant and animal life cycles, pollination, and environmental science, aligning with curriculum standards. 

 

Impact on Students and School:

This Bird and Wildlife Garden will enrich the learning environment, serving as an outdoor space that complements science and environmental studies. Engaging students in hands-on projects and wildlife observation promotes curiosity and critical thinking, fostering a lifelong connection to nature. For Socrates Academy, this project aligns with our mission to create well-rounded, environmentally conscious students who understand the impact of individual actions on larger ecological systems.

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The Bird and Wildlife Garden will also provide the school with a space for community engagement activities, allowing families to participate in garden upkeep, citizen science projects, and seasonal planting days. This project not only enhances our campus but also strengthens our commitment to environmental education and community involvement.​

Project Site Photos

KNCB Visit/Pre-project

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Project Development & Completion Photos

Coming Soon!

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