Teacher Wins Award from PETA for Classroom Bug Strategy
by Kenny Luna, North Babylon, NY on 03. 6.08
In a twist she most certainly wasn’t expecting, Melodie Conrad, an elementary teacher at Eagle Rock Elementary School & Magnet Center in California is set to receive the "Compassionate Teacher Award" from PETA for her unique classroom strategy that encourages students to be kind to bugs of all shapes and sizes that wander in from the great outdoors.
The idea itself was the creation of a student insect-monitor that works pretty much the same as monitors for the hallways, chalkboards and classroom windows. If a bug finds its way into the classroom, the student bug-monitor swings into action, swooping down with a paper towel or napkin before scooping it up and depositing it back outside.
Of course Melodie was quick to note that she's not out to create bug activists, but certainly wants to instill a sense of respect for life with her concept, and hopefully, a non-violent temperament as well.
As PETA's Sangeeta Kumar points out, "children who respect and protect the smallest and most maligned among us, (become) better citizens who have compassion for others."
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Via:: AHN
What a brilliant and creative way to teach and instill values in children!
Cool idea... but damn, is that photo for real? I get the goosebumps only looking at it. I do not hurt insects, but I admit it's partly because I wouldn't get close to most of them if I can help it!
This technique not only allows the group to be compassionate, but it is a great learning experience if they actually learned about each insect they caught, before taking outside. When I took an entomology class, my 2 and 5 year old nieces loved to help me catch the insects. Of course, I struggled with what we HAD to do for the class and I never let them see that part of it. But insects are so beautiful (most) and interesting. It pays to teach kids to appreciate something than to be afraid of it.
Peta kills animals!
"Of course Melodie was quick to note that she's not out to create bug activists"
WHy are so people so afraid of promoting activism? Action isn't the problem. Inaction is.
That said, bravo.
I personally haven't knowingly harmed even an ant since spontaneously becoming Vegan about a year ago. People thought I was Buddhist (FACT: Many Buddhists eat meat.).