Praise for The Rainforest Challenge

UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

REGION I J.F. KENNEDY FEDERAL BUILDING, BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02203-2211

August 2, 1993

Katherine Watier STEP

RFD #1 Box 3705

Union, Maine 04862

Dear Ms. Watier:

I've just finished reading your application and am nearly at a loss for words.

STEP's ability to unite classrooms and schools from all over

Maine in a rainforest conservation effort is truly unfathomable. The mere fact that STEP had 137 requests for information indicates just how far reaching this program has become. The Rainforest Challenge is such a simple and manageable way to educate and empower students. All of these kids are learning how they can be a part of rainforest preservation and how they can spread the word to other kids who want to help.

Thank you for taking the time to care Katherine. Just think what may be possible if STEP continues to reach students from across the nation. When children feel truly devoted to a cause like this one the sky is the limit.

Congratulations on all of your success thus far and please continue to guide STEP in their outstanding project.

Sincerely,

Evelyn Sullivan Public Affairs

Enclosures

To Whom It May Concern;

I am writing to commend the programs and activities of a group of ambitious high schoolers at Medomak High School. This group is known to me as "STEP" and is actively involved in environmental issues. The issue that touched me and my class at Union Elementary was saving the rain forest.

A handful of these dedicated kids came into my classroom last spring to talk to my students about preserving the rain forest. My third grade class had already raised $1 00 by themselves to purchase one acre of tropical land in Costa Rica. I don't know exactly what I was expecting from these students but the hour long presentation was incredible. It was fast moving, accurate, multi-sensory and multimedia. It had my kids talking, drawing and listening and eating.

My class was so inspired that they spear-headed a "Save The Rain Forest" drive that included food sales and a read-a- thon that netted over $400 dollars; enough to purchase another four acres of rain forest in Costa Rica.

I have met with these students since then and have offered my services and suggestions as to how to improve their program. They have the crucial ingredient: enthusiasm. All they need after that is some posters, some books for information and research and some more video and multi-media tools.

I strongly urge you to support these students in their environmental quest.

Sincerely,

Charles G. Allen Teacher

Union Elementary

The International School

9-1-92

“Dear Members:

I am writing to you as I am an educator who has been influenced by the work STEP does. They teach youngsters the value of the world’s rainforests, as well as the ecological and global consequences of burning them. In addition to this important task, they also provide a mean to mobilization since their presentations motivate students to action such as fund-raising to support rainforest preservation. STEP also undertakes such activities directly are themselves responsible for saving acres.”

Carla Bridges

Teacher

“The Medomak Valley High School STEP team has given some very worthwhile presentations at Friendship Village School. The STEP members taught grades 4,5, &6 with a variety of approaches and techniques. The elementary students learned about the rainforest through demonstrations, hands-on activities, a rainforest rap, discussions, games, and artwork.

We look forward to future visits from this organized and creative team. It is great to see their environmental message reaching the younger students!”

Sincerely,

Nancy Jones

Teacher