CHAD PREGRACKE VISITS EISENHOWER ELEMENTARY

Chad Pregracke, environmentalist, founder and CEO of LIVING LANDS & WATERS will speak to Eisenhower Elementary School staff and students about his river clean up efforts on Monday, February 5, at 9:00 a.m.. Chad is a hometown hero, a recipient of the prestigious Jefferson Award, and has received an honorary doctorate from St. Ambrose University.

Prior to his visit, all students will view the WQPT award winning documentary about Chad’s life: THE RIVER RESCUER. In 1998, Chad established the not-for profit organization Living Lands & Waters to support river clean up efforts as well as education opportunities. Eisenhower students have been collecting donations for LIVING LANDS & WATERS since their return from winter break. “A Boat Load of Pennies” is the theme and the students will formally present their donation to Chad as part of the program.

Chad Pregracke’s visit is connected to a second grade, integrated study of animals and habitats along the Mississippi River. Second grade students will visit THE NATIONAL MISSISSIPPI RIVER MUSEUM AND AQUARIUM in Dubuque, Iowa on April 17, 2007 as part of an ISABEL BLOOM GRANT, PTA Grant, and GREAT MINDS GRANT. Upon return from the museum field study trip, students will work with professional artist Bruce Carter illustrating writings from the classroom in connection with animals and habitats. Writings and illustrations will be on display and celebrated in a community reception in May. This integrated study connects grade level standards, benchmarks and curriculum in visual art, science, social studies, writing and music.