Page 24 - TheCardinal-Spring2021_ONLINE

MENCHACA EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
MENCHACA EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

CAMPUS NEWS
CAMPUS NEWS

Outdoor Learning Environment Coming to MECC

An Outdoor Learning Environment transforms early childhood
spaces through research inspired designs that increase physical
activity and connection with the natural world. The initiative adds
design elements (looping pathways, vegetable gardens, outdoor

learning settings, etc.) to enable early childhood children to be
active, learn in nature, and develop motor skills. The following
are examples of how we can enhance learning by utilizing our
outdoor environment:

Science: Use your surroundings to discuss scientifi c concepts, such as the water cycle, plant species, or solar
power. Discuss hydropower by using miniature tools to harness the power of water at the water table.

Math: Use the environment and measure cups of dirt or diameters of tree trunks. Discuss patterns by using

those found in nature.
Language Arts: Take children outdoors for story time—especially when reading a story that discusses wind,

sunshine, or other natural elements. Provide books that help children identify wildlife in your outdoor space.

Creative Writing: Use the outdoors as a prompt for creative-writing topics.
Menchaca Principal Selected to TAASPYC and TEPSA Boards

Menchaca Early Childhood Center Principal, Mrs. Rebecca
Delgado-Herrera, has been selected and appointed to Region
20 The Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association

(TEPSA) Board as Treasurer. TEPSA, has served Texas Pre-K
to 8th Grade school leaders since 1917 and has more than 5,900
members who direct the activities of more than 3 million school
children. We’re proud of Mrs. Herrera for receiving this honor

and for the attention it brings to SISD as she helps contribute to
the success of leaders throughout Region 20.
Menchaca Early Childhood Center principal Rebecca Herrera
pictured with TEPSA Members.
Additionally, Mrs. Herrera has also been selected as the San
Antonio Representative for the Texas Association of Administrators and Supervisors of Programs for Young
Children where the focus is on promoting high-quality learning by connecting practice, policy, and research.

24 www.southsideisd.org