Mental and Physical Health Crisis: How Outdoor Learning Can Help Children Thrive

Hands-on learning is vital to increase our agility and flexibility in problem-solving, which may be just what students are lacking as technology and standardized testing continue to take precedence in our education system. Dr. Rhea returns with friend and colleague, Pete Silvius, to dive deeper into Seguin’s Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center and the ways students can thrive within the center. Pete describes the center’s offerings and opportunities, and the plans for growth in the years to come. Pete Silvius is the Director of Whole Child Initiatives for Seguin ISD in Seguin, Texas. This is Pete’s 28th year working in public education.  He has a background in Physical Education and Special Education but his passion is Outdoor Education.  Pete is honored to work for Seguin ISD going on 23 years and is especially thankful for support of innovative programing including the LiiNK Project, Adventure School, The Irma Lewis-Outdoor Learning Center, and Adventure Camp Summer Programs.  Pete is active within the Seguin community serving on the board for the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center, Parks and Recreation Advisory, Planning and Zoning, and the Guadalupe Appraisal District.  Pete is a founder of the newly formed Community Cycles non-profit organization in Seguin.  Pete is married and has two grownchildren.  Resources mentioned in this episode:⁠Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning CenterWill Smith Zoo School San Antonio