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Building a Greener Future Together
Empowering Youth Through Conservation
 

Partnerships with Student Conservation Association and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Building a Greener Future Together

Our mission to foster environmental stewardship and empower our students through hands-on learning is strengthened by our invaluable partnerships with the Student Conservation Association (SCA) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Led by Juan Elizondo, these collaborations provide unique opportunities for our students to engage with real-world conservation projects, gain practical experience, and develop into the environmental leaders of tomorrow.

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Student Conservation Association (SCA)

The Student Conservation Association is dedicated to building the next generation of conservation leaders. Our partnership with the SCA brings numerous benefits to our students and community:
 

  • Paid Internships: Through the SCA, our students participate in paid internships that offer hands-on experience in urban farming, environmental science, and conservation practices. Juan Elizondo collaborates with these partners to write grants and secure funding for these internships, ensuring that students gain valuable work experience while fostering a commitment to environmental stewardship.
     

  • Summer Crew Programs: During the summer, our students join paid internship programs where they aid in maintaining and establishing gardens at our feeder pattern schools. This initiative not only supports the sustainability of these gardens but also extends the impact of our environmental efforts throughout the community.
     

  • Leadership Development: SCA internships empower our students to take on leadership roles within their projects. They learn essential skills in project management, teamwork, and public speaking, which are crucial for their future careers.
     

  • Community Impact: Interns work on projects that have a tangible impact on our community, such as maintaining the Community Garden at Herman Brown Park, conducting environmental clean-ups, and educating the public on sustainable practices.
     

Success Stories

Many of our students have gone on to pursue careers in environmental science and natural resource management, thanks in large part to their experiences with the SCA. These internships provide a pathway to higher education and professional success, demonstrating the powerful impact of this partnership.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)

Protecting Wildlife and Habitats

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service plays a critical role in conserving, protecting, and enhancing fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats.

 

Our collaboration with the USFWS enriches our educational programs and provides our students with unique opportunities to engage in meaningful conservation work:
 

  • Wildlife Habitat Projects: Students work alongside USFWS professionals on projects that enhance and protect wildlife habitats. These projects include planting native species, restoring wetlands, and creating pollinator gardens.
     

  • Educational Programs: The USFWS offers educational resources and workshops that align with our curriculum, providing students with in-depth knowledge about local ecosystems, conservation strategies, and the importance of biodiversity.
     

  • Field Experiences: Our students participate in field trips and hands-on activities organized by the USFWS, such as bird banding, fish sampling, and habitat assessments. These experiences offer a real-world perspective on conservation work and inspire students to pursue careers in this field.
     

Long-Standing Impact

Since the inception of our partnership, thousands of students have benefited from the expertise and resources provided by the USFWS. These experiences not only enhance their education but also foster a lifelong appreciation for wildlife and natural habitats.
 

Multimedia and Educational Projects

Juan Elizondo, with his unique background in Radio-Television-Film, serves as a producer and director for numerous environmental stories and evergreen educational projects with these partners. Yearly, they work together to produce a wide array of content, including print, video, and multimedia publications. This collaboration not only enhances student learning but also raises awareness about environmental issues and conservation efforts.

Experiential Learning

Through these partnerships, students engage in a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, and hunting programs. They connect with experts in conservation, including professors, game wardens, and foresters, gaining insights and experiences that are invaluable for their personal and professional growth. This partnership also serves as a workforce development program, where students gain a variety of skills in the many facets of natural resources, from on-the-ground conservation work to multimedia productions.
 

City-Wide Projects and Community Outreach

Our collaboration extends to numerous projects throughout the city in partnership with the Houston Parks Department. Together, we conduct outreach events and conservation projects that benefit the broader community. These initiatives include environmental education workshops, tree planting events, and habitat restoration projects, all aimed at promoting sustainability and community engagement.
 

Alignment with Our Portrait of a Graduate and XQ Super School Project

Our partnerships with the SCA and USFWS are integral to fulfilling Furr High School’s mission and vision, particularly as articulated in our Portrait of a Graduate and the XQ Super School Project. These collaborations provide students with real-world experiences that align with our goals of developing critical thinkers, responsible decision-makers, and engaged citizens.
 

  • Real-World Learning: Students gain hands-on experience in conservation, environmental science, and multimedia production, applying classroom knowledge to practical situations.
     

  • Skill Development: The diverse activities and projects help students develop a wide range of skills, from technical abilities in agriculture and media production to soft skills like leadership and teamwork.
     

  • Community Engagement: Through these partnerships, students are actively involved in community service and environmental stewardship, reinforcing the importance of civic responsibility and community engagement.
     

Past Funding and Support from XQ (2016-2023)

XQ funding was instrumental in our success, allowing us to invest in internships with the Student Conservation Association, teacher apprenticeships and supplies. The support was crucial in developing and expanding our educational programs.

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A Synergistic Approach

Our partnerships with the Student Conservation Association and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service exemplify the power of collaboration in achieving shared goals.

Together, we are:

  • Creating Stewards of the Environment: By providing hands-on learning opportunities and real-world conservation experiences, we are nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards.
     

  • Enhancing Educational Outcomes: These partnerships enrich our curriculum, offering students a comprehensive education that integrates academic learning with practical application.
     

  • Making a Community Impact: Our joint projects contribute to the well-being of our community by addressing environmental issues, improving local green spaces, and promoting sustainable practices.

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We are proud of the work we have accomplished with the SCA and USFWS and look forward to continuing these partnerships to create a greener, more sustainable future. Join us in our mission to educate, inspire, and empower our students through conservation and environmental stewardship.

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