Exploring careers and education

“The Earth Saints Academy explores careers and education available through the NAU Forestry Degree programs, the National Park Service, and the US Forestry Service.”

14th Annual Community Achievement Awards (CAA)

Academy of Building Industries wins Educational Program of the Year for the Earth Saints Academy, a program that allows students to spend time in the forest doing public service projects and learning from rangers.

Principal, Jean Thomas says she hopes recognition of the Earth Saints Academy makes it easier to secure supplies for students and perhaps a replacement for the schools well-worn 15- passenger van.

Congratulations Academy of Building Industries and Go Earth Saints!

(Mohave Daily News (June 12, 2011 issue)

The Academy of Building Industries High School recognizes deficits in the public education environment that hinder some students from reaching their full learning potential. As staff members learned about outdoor classrooms and green technology emerging in charter schools across the nation, they went to work to learn more. To inspire, motivate, and teach the love of leaning, students need to be exposed to environments, opportunities, and experiences that spark curiosity. Outdoor classrooms do just that, so ABOI staff along with students created the Earth Saints Academy.

The Earth Saints Academy is an extracurricular activity designed to expose at risk students (due to poverty or environmental issues) to experiences they would normally never have the opportunity to participate in. The Earth Saints Academy explores careers and education available through the NAU Forestry Degree programs, the National Park Service, and the US Forestry Service.

Through field investigations and interdisciplinary activities, students learn about the natural and cultural resources of the community and country. Partnering with National Park Service Rangers and US Forestry Service, AOBI staff teaches standards in Biology, Ecology, Geology, Astronomy, History, English, and Art. Week long camping trips where students perform community service, allow kids to learn soft skills, social responsibility, ethics and team work. Students return with a new found interest in learning, a sense of personal accomplishments, community pride and responsibility.

Congrats to AOBI Student, Gabriel Ortega, for his volunteer service with National Parks Service for the summer! We are proud of you Gabriel!