I read in the Ripton Elementary School newsletter that students have been spending part of each day this winter learning and playing, sled dogging and skiing in the great outdoors.  No doubt they have delighted in our almost nightly snowfall and learning about the nocturnal visitors to their playground.
The Ripton School is located next to a forest where the deer bed down for the night. Tiny tracks reveal animals much smaller who too must stay on the move to stay warm.  Food must be found and students learn the part that good food plays in keeping their own bodies warm.
Now, hooray, the days are getting longer and soon buds will be spotted on the branches as the trees respond to the return of the light.
Thank you teachers for making the very best of the challenges of COVID by offering such a rich, place-based winter learning experience at the Ripton School.
And to the voters of ACSD, please Vote YES on town meeting day for Ripton to keep its school and incredible outdoor classroom here in the foothills of the Green Mountains.
With thanks.
Mia Allen
Ripton