The problem

By teaching young people about the natural world in which we live, we can encourage sustainable practices and informed decision-making. The 4-H Environmental Education Camp is an opportunity for young people to learn about natural resources in a safe outdoor setting. Rockcastle County Gifted and Talented students were eager to learn more about the world around them. These students typically perform at higher levels in academic settings compared to their age peers, often excelling in one or more subjects. Attending 4-H Environmental Education Camp will allow them to analyze environmental problems and develop innovative solutions.

The educational program response

4-H Agent, Alyssa Cox, partnered with Rockcastle County Schools to provide the Environmental Camp opportunity to their students. Alyssa partnered with other agencies to provide the students with unique and engaging workshops. These partnerships included Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, the Kentucky Reptile Zoo, and the Kentucky Hunter's Education Association. The camp provided opportunities that were tailored to the unique abilities of gifted learners and offered a blend of hands-on activities, interactive workshops, and in-depth discussions on environmental science and sustainability.

The participants/target audience

Rockcastle County 4-H partnered with Rockcastle County Schools and Rockcastle County Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) to take 33 students to an overnight 4-H Environmental Education Camp experience. Rockcastle County fifth graders who have been placed in the Gifted and Talented program stayed at J.M. Feltner 4-H Camp and participated in 6 workshops focused on natural resources and sustainability. 

Other partners (if applicable)

Program impact or participant response.

The 4-H Environmental Education Camp not only nurtured their intellectual and personal growth but also planted the seeds for a greener, more sustainable world.