I have been privileged to be a school liaison and an adult chaperone for two (and counting!) of the Isle Royale Education Program trips. The planning, organization, outfitting and support for these trips is unparalleled, especially when you consider the educational benefit to the students who attend, and at very little monetary cost to the student! This is not some "let's go camping," recreational trip for the kids or adults who attend -- though make no mistake, we do have fun! This is a life-changing experience for many, some of whom have never been camping or hiking before. Students learn about the ecosystem of this unique location, about the interdependence of plant and animal species and habitats, about stewardship of natural resources, while participating in Ranger-led group experiences, leadership and team-building exercises, and sharing responsibility with one another in the "work" aspects of setting up camp, cooking, clean-up, and carrying their own and group gear. Our students have made archaeological finds, and been able to interface with teams of international scientists who study the populations of moose and wolves on the island. Students also memorialize the trip, through photography, videography, story-telling, and creating artwork -- as well as video production and editing in a solar and battery-powered production tent, that is part of our encampment. They are amazed at the end of the trip, what they have learned, experienced, contributed to and created, in the span of a week!
I got the privilege to go on an Isle Royale trip 3 times. They were all different roles 1st time as a hiker. Second as a student for IREP; and the 3rd as an adult for the IREP program. They gave me the skills and education to fully excel what ever role I played. RWF is a recommended organization to help or learn about physical and natural sciences
I teach 5/6 science and have the pleasure of having Mr. Harris come in to the class to teach electricity and magnetism. It is always a favorite day of the year for our kids! We are also fortunate enough to get to visit a nearby hydroplant with Mr. Harris. He treats our kids to a solar lunch and a wealth of information! I am so thankful for Mr. Harris and Renewable World Foundation!
Bill Harris exemplifies his love of children through his fantastic educational classes he teaches. All his classes are hands on and gets the kids involved in his lessons. He ALWAYS goes above and beyond and gets kids excited about his projects. This is just part of his lessons though. He loves to take kids out of the classroom and see science in action. He has taken my classes on several canoe trips at his expense. He provides canoes, life jackets, breakfast, lunch, and most importantly his time. He values these kids and gives them a tour of the power dam and explains electricity and how it helps our small town. This non profit organization has been extremely beneficial to our impoverished small town. It helps kids see the big picture and that they can be a part of it.
I have had the pleasure of working with Bill and his foundation for the last several years across state lines (Mi & WI) in two different school districts. My students have always come away with a positive experience. I am amazed by the level of time and energy that goes in to creating this top notch educational program. Having it be at little to no cost to my school ensures that I can continue to offer my students hands-on, relevant learning in the classroom as well as outdoors. I am very grateful.
Bill Harris has so much knowledge and patience!! Every year he's willing to give more time to students and truly wants them all to be involved in everything he does. It baffles me that this service is not charged for. Great education for the students about the topic and excellent advice for life! I always look forward to having him in the classroom.
I represent two school districts that have been working with this organization for at least 13 years. Bill Harris has consistently done great work with our kids. His classroom educational programs are top notch. The outdoor experiences are one of a kind for our kids. We are lucky to have the privilege of working with Renewable World Foundation!