Hiawatha students are enriched by learning about the natural world in monthly, hands-on workshops in their classrooms, and led by volunteers from the school community - parents, grandparents, caregivers, and community members. Please note: Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, our volunteers will be leading activities virtually until further notice.

Learn about Four Winds Nature Institute on their website (link opens a new window.)

Mission: "Advancing the understanding and appreciation of natural science through community-based environmental education and research."

Hiawatha Coordinator 
Amanda Marino
Email Amanda Marino

If you are interested in contributing to the Four Winds effort at Hiawatha, here are three things you could do: 

• Find out if your classroom needs a Four Winds volunteer, or backup help.

• Consider volunteering. Each classroom needs two volunteer-teachers to help with the lesson.

  • Time committment: Volunteers can expect to spend 2-3 hours on each unit. This includes reviewing the lesson, planning with your teaching partner, preparing materials, and presenting the information to the class. There are 8 units that will be presented throughout the year, averaging approximately 1 unit per month. 

• Contribute to the PTO! Our PTO funds half the cost of Four Winds. If you wish your donation to be used exclusively for Four Winds, please write that on the check. For general donations and to learn about Hiawatha PTO, visit the page. [Note: Four Winds also accepts donations to the program, see their website, linked above.] 

Earth: Exploring our Physical World:

Topics: 

• Sunlight and Shadow

• Erosion

• Rocks and Minerals

• Blanket of Air

• Nature of Sound

• Water

• Wind and Clouds Aloft

• Get Your Bearings