Forests

The Lester Park Forest is located on the upper side of Glenwood Street directly across from the school. An official sign is placed at the entrance to the forest. 

Our students enjoy access to our school forest.  Our engaging science lessons are based on Minnesota State Standards.  Community members and volunteers help maintain trails and infrastructure within the forest.

A School Forest is an outdoor classroom where students learn a variety of subjects and address academic standards. It can become a place that not only enhances an appreciation of natural resources but heightens community pride and involvement. A functioning School Forest has positive effects on students, teachers, parents, and the community.

For students, school forests can:

• Make lessons more relevant by using meaningful, real-world situations.
• Reach students through hands-on learning.
• Increase knowledge gain and student achievement.
• Provide mentoring opportunities for older students.
• Encourage physical activity and improve student health.
• Allow students with disabilities frequent, safe contact with the natural world.
• Develop young people's innate interest in the natural world.
• Foster a sense of ownership and community connection.
• Increase creativity, self-esteem, and motivation.
• Expose students to local natural resource career possibilities.