Greater Johnstown School District

West Side Wetlands

Adjacent to West Side Elementary resides a unique ecological exhibit regularly utilized by teachers and students at the school. Equipped with an observation deck, eight student benches, a bridge, and a podium, the site helps teachers provide a practical application of the Science curriculum.

This work was completed by Andrew Wilcox, a 2010 graduate of Greater Johnstown High School. After being granted permission from the GJSD Board of Directors and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Wilcox completed the project during the summers of 2008 and 2009 with the hopes of becoming an Eagle Scout as the end result.

Wilcox had plenty of help with making his vision a reality: His neighbors, friends, and fellow Key Club and Scout members volunteered their time and labor. Money for materials came from the Kiwanis and from Wilcox's selling candy bars.

The result is an outdoor classroom that will serve West Side students for many years to come.  With the opportunity to enjoy nature while simultaneously engaging in practical, hands-on learning aligned to the Pennsylvania Science standards, West Side students are very grateful for the hard work of Mr. Wilcox and the many volunteers who contributed to the project.