NewsDrop-June-2025

EAA EOC

By: EAA EOC Staff

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NEW FACES AND FEATURES AT THE EOC A Fresh Finish

Looking Ahead: New Tools, New Learning This school year wasn’t just about new people—it was also about new tools for learning! We installed a weather station in the front window of the building, allowing students to engage with real-time weather data. Additionally, our new bird wall , located to the left of the main entrance, invites visitors to identify and learn about local bird species. These installations support informal learn ing opportunities even when students are simply exploring the grounds. April was a particularly busy month, with 858 students visiting the center. Unsurprisingly, the Topo Box emerged as a clear favorite, inspiring awe and questions from nearly every group. Our newest educator, Elizabeth Gutierrez, also introduced a dynamic new activity called The Incredible Journey . This simulation guides students through the stages of the water cycle, helping them understand where water travels and how it is stored in a fun and immer sive way to learn about our planet’s most precious resource.

As we wrap up the school year, we celebrate not only the growth in our visi tor numbers, but also the growth in knowledge, curiosity, and environmental stewardship we see in each person who walks through our doors. Thank you to everyone—staff, volunteers, educators, and visitors—who made this semester one to remember.

During the 2024-2025 School Year, the Edwards Aquifer Education Outreach Cen ter welcomed more than 5,000 visitors, children, parents, teachers, and even a few curious neighbors. Each visit was an opportunity to spark curiosity, deepen under standing, and celebrate the natural resources of our region. This spring brought exciting additions to our center. In April, we unveiled two new exhibits: the Topo Box and Garden Sensory Bins. The Topo Box, a hands-on exhibit that lets visitors explore topography and visualize water flow across vari ous landscapes, captivated students and adults alike. Just outside, our younger guests delighted in the Garden Sensory Bins—an interactive outdoor exhibit that encourages tactile exploration and creative play. Both exhibits have quickly become favorites.

Our programming was made even richer by the generous contributions of volunteers and interns. This semester, we were fortunate to welcome Coco Brennan, who fasci nated children with her presentations on bats. Master Naturalist and gardener John Williams brought his expertise to our outdoor spaces, enhancing the beauty and biodiversity of our gardens. Dedicated educators like Sharon Tomme, Pamela Peck, and many others continued to guide students in learning about water conservation and the Edwards Aquifer through engaging lessons and activities. We also expanded our team of work-study interns from the Alamo Community College District, adding two new students: Alcee Vickery and Mayla Juarez. Their energy, creativity, and commitment have brought fresh perspectives to our programs.

If you’re interested in becoming part of the EOC Volunteer Team, visit our website at eaaeoc.org under the “Donate” tab to learn more. We would love to have you join us!

Join in!

Education Outreach Center Summer Hours: The EAA EOC is open Monday - Thursday 8 AM - 5 PM. On Friday’s the center will be open from 10 AM to 7 PM now through Friday, August 29 (except July 4). Admission is free. Go to eaaeoc.org to schedule your visit.

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