Cornell Lab of Ornithology Partnership - Conservation through Science

When speaking to employers in Nicaragua we have heard that they wish critical thinking skills were more of a focus throughout school. They believe this type of education would better prepare employees to move up to management positions in the workplace. In addition, concerns of conservation and environmental justice are top of mind in many communities in Nicaragua.

The partnership with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology is the perfect opportunity to begin to tackle these challenges. The BirdSleuth-International curriculum (www.birdsleuth.org/international), created by the Education program at the Cornell Lab, incorporates STEM principles to help children develop critical thinking skills. In addition, the lessons are all designed to teach children about bird habitat and conservation.

 

The Cornell Lab has been working in Nicaragua for several years teaching workshops to provide formal and nonformal educators with training to support them in implementing the curriculum with youth audiences and engaging their communities in citizen science and conservation projects focused on birds. The success of BirdSleuth-International is only possible because of strong partnerships with these dedicated Nicaraguan educators. To help the program to grow we are seeking funds to support initiatives such as: hiring an in-country BirdSleuth coordinator, providing "mini-grants" to support bird conservation projects, and offering further trainings throughout more parts of the country. Nica Life is currently fundraising to kick off this program.

Do you want to help? There are two great ways to support our education programs. You can make a donation, it's easy, just visit our fundraising page here

OR, purchase our Carlos Bracelets! Fifty percent of the profits from our Carlos Bracelets benefit our Education Programs. 

Our English program was inspired by one of our artisan’s sons, Carlos and his desire to learn. When we launched the program, he gave one of our founders, Jerry, a bracelet as a thank you. That meaningful gift gave us the idea for the Education Collection, 50% of the profits from this collection will be used for Nica Life education programs. The first pieces in the collection were inspired by the bracelet Carlos made, We hope they mean as much to you as they do to us! Shop Now!