Maude Saunders fifth graders participated in the Emerald Coast Science Center Bio-Blitz on Wednesday.  As field scientists, they learned to collect samples which they then identified, categorized and photographed.  They were surprised to find that the area around Maude Saunders is full of interesting plants and animals.  All photos will be uploaded to the iNaturalist website to share with other nature-lovers and scientists. Submitted by Krisy Spence.

Art departments at Freeport Elementary School, Walton Middle School, Emerald Coast Middle School, Paxton High School, and Freeport High School received recognition and a $100 award check for their participation in the Building Industry Association of Okaloosa and Walton Counties. 

Rain Barrels were provided by the @BIAOkaloosaWalton, and painted with creative designs. They were auctioned off during the annual Parade of Homes and the proceeds went toward a special scholarship program for students looking for careers in the building industry, as well as back in the form of an award to the participating schools. A rain barrel is a system that collects and stores rainwater from your rooftop that would otherwise be lost to runoff and diverted to storm drains and streams. A rain barrel is relatively simple and inexpensive to construct and can sit conveniently under a residential gutter down spout, or any spot where rain runs off of the roof. The water collected can be used to water plants, gardens, wash the car, and any number of usages that don't require sterile water. 

Mr. Alan Baggett, Executive Vice-President of the made the presentation.  Pictured are Kim Kirby, school board member; Alan Baggett, BIAOW, Jason Campbell accepting the award for Kaitlyn Arnold, art teacher at WMS; Jennifer Rhea, art teacher at ECMS; Corinne Wilson, art teacher at Paxton; Laurie Hudson, art teacher at FES; and Superintendent Hughes.

Maude Saunders second graders were transformed into field scientists today as they headed down the school’s nature trail.  Once they reached the outdoor classroom, they learned how to use their senses to discover the wonders of nature.  Thank you to the Emerald Coast Science Center for providing this opportunity for our students. Submitted by Krisy Spence.