Red Smith Trail Supports Literacy, Learning

Red Smith School Agriscience Teacher Sarah Valentine had a vision for a story trail in the woods near Red Smith School to promote outdoor exploration and literacy for students and families.

Through a grant she received from the Green Bay Area Public Schools Education Foundation and with the assistance of the Green Bay Conservation Corps and the Green Bay Parks Department, that vision has become a reality.

The Story Trail consists of 18 sign posts spread along the 1/2 mile loop. Each sign holds a page spread from the story so you can read the story as you walk the trail. The first story presented is "Wonder Walkers" by Micha Archer. The grant provided funding to change out the story throughout the year. 

The Green Bay Conservation Corps was responsible for clearing seven acres of invasive buckthorn from the area, and mulched the ½ mile trail. In addition, they worked with the Girl Scout Troop 4536 in the placement of the benches the troop helped create. The City of Green Bay Parks Department staff was responsible for the signposts.

A Red Smith School kindergarteners recently walked the trail and read the story and shared their observations with staff.

Click on the images below to see larger photos of their trail walk.