Sophia Franchetti, a Munsey Park graduate and a rising senior at Manhasset High School, recently returned to Munsey Park Elementary School to speak with second grade classes about the importance of pollinators. The lesson, which tied in with the second grade science curriculum about ecosystems and pollination, was part of Franchetti’s Girl Scout Gold Award Project.
The Gold Award is the highest achievement within the Girl Scouts organization. To earn the prestigious award, a Girl Scout must first find an issue in their community or the world that they care about. They then conduct research, brainstorm how they can tackle it and spread their message with others. Franchetti has always had a passion for art which usually encompasses an environmental theme. She also has a love for animals. Teaching young students about pollinators and how they can protect them was a perfect way to incorporate her interests and educate others in the community about their importance.
Franchetti connected with Munsey Park principal Chad Altman and science specialist Kim Viscovich to see if she could teach the second graders about this topic during their science lab. They welcomed her back to Munsey Park with open arms and throughout the school day, Franchetti spoke with second grade classes about what pollinators are, how they are in danger and what can be done to help them. She then supplied each student with a biodegradable cup which they filled with soil and added sunflower seeds to. The second graders were able to take their cups home to plant their sunflowers and watch them grow during the summer months.
In addition, Franchetti gifted each student with a pack of native plant seeds for them to plant their own flowers and support pollinators such as butterflies and bees. The second graders also received a brochure that Franchetti created. The brochure detailed how an individual can grow a pollinator-friendly garden, why pollination is so important and more. The Munsey Park students were completely engaged with the lesson and were excited to take their newfound knowledge and seeds home with them.
