A student from the after school group gets transformed into a bird! Photo: Sue Knoth, February 2008, Kodiak NWR VC

The Kodiak Refuge Visitor Center has been a hit with the kids of Kodiak.  Over 500 students have participated in programs at the Visitor Center since its opening in mid-November.  While the local schools have been the biggest audience, a bi-weekly preschool program called Families Understanding Nature (FUN) and a weekly after school program have been popular. 

Students from the local schools participate in a variety of activities ranging from scavenger hunts, whale talks, and other activities tailored to their school curriculum.  Classes from preschool through high school have been enjoying the center.  Most sessions end in our multi purpose room where students can record what they have learned through notes and drawing on the white board covered walls.  Education Specialist, Sue Knoth, always encourages them to come back to the Center with their families and many of them do!

The FUN program is geared towards 3 to 5 year olds and their parents.  Up to 30 preschoolers attend our bi-weekly FUN programs.  Books, songs, crafts, and games are incorporated into these programs for the littlest nature lovers. 

Every Wednesday afternoon kids from the local schools participate in our after school program.  KACLAC (Kodiak Alaska Community Learning Activity Center) is a program from the local school district which brings kids into the community.  Students choose from activities ranging from ice skating, swimming, Alutiiq language, and our wildlife program.  Students participate for a series of 4 sessions, exploring a new theme each week.