MN Governor Dayton Visits Willow Lane Elementary
Originally by Sarah Alexander
MN Governor Mark Dayton has declared April 18-22, 2016, to be Water Action Week throughout Minnesota. Each day focuses on a different theme, including: water action for kids, urban communities, rural communities, and a celebration of Earth Day. The week provides an opportunity to encourage Minnesotans to learn about the challenges facing our water resources and to provide individuals the means to take action and create change. During Water Action Week, and every week, Minnesotans must realize their power to be part of the solution in changing the way Minnesota uses and values precious water resources.
On Tuesday, April 19, 2016, MN Governor Dayton visited Willow Lane Elementary in White Bear Lake, MN, to catch a glimpse of what students are learning about water resources. Governor Dayton, and other honored guests, were each warmly welcomed by a student who showed them to their seat and provided an introduction. Students and guests then had the opportunity to participate in a bi-weekly mini summit, organized by the students to share with their peers the importance of protecting water resources. Included in the summit were topics related to how the students are working with H2O for Life at their school to raise money to fund a clean water project, as well as their local efforts through the Race 2 Reduce Initiative to think about water in their own community. Topics throughout the summit were tied back to the District’s core values of compassion, integrity, respect, responsibility, and service.
Honored guests who were part of the summit included: Department of Education Commissioner Brenda Cassellius, Senator Chuck Wiger, Representative Peter Fischer, City of White Bear Lake Mayor Jo Emerson, H2O for Life Staff and others.
Near the conclusion of the Summit, Governor Dayton expressed congratulations and thanks to the students for their work in protecting our valuable water resources. Recognizing that students must be part of the solution, he showcased water education programs in schools as an important step forward.
Following the mini-Water Summit, guests followed students back to their classrooms for a snapshot into the water resources curriculum that has been integrated into the school this year. Great work, Willow Lane, and to all of the White Bear Lake Schools!
Here are some photos from the day:
