Civil Municipal - April 2024

A view of Mount Rainier, access to state and city parks, and a historic waterfront invite new residents and businesses to indulge in an active lifestyle. The U.S. Census for the City of Gig Harbor estimates that the population of 12,892 is growing 1.61% annually and has increased by 6.76% since 2020. Residents move here to revel in nature and take advantage of the abundant hiking trails, water-based recreation, beaches, and camping. For families who live in the area, an outstanding education is within reach at the Peninsula School District, where the vision is to inspire and empower every child, every day. The district’s 17 schools prepare students to be successful global citizens by providing innovative, rigorous programs and helping support the community through dynamic initiatives. OUTDOOR EDUCATION The Peninsula School District is located in a beautiful area, so it is a natural fit that Outdoor Education is a cornerstone of the curriculum. Krestin Bahr, Superintendent of the Peninsula School District, is propelled by a passion for student engagement and adapting open-air activities into teaching methods. “It is our responsibility to offer diverse learning, while taking advantage of our surroundings and the opportunity to be in nature,” Bahr said. “Outdoor Education cultivates critical thinking and environmental stewardship. We recognize the profound impact nature has on learning, and we strive to harness its potential to enrich every journey.” The Peninsula School District offers outdoor transitional kindergarten (TK) inspired by a 2021/2022 school year trip to Bodø, Norway. Bahr traveled with a delegation to Bodø to study its early learning programs. “Our TK classes can be outdoors all day in the rain, frolicking in the mud,” states Bahr. “We have proper clothing because one thing we learned in Norway is that there is no bad weather, just bad clothes.” From nearby park field trips to nature reserves to on- campus outside spaces, students connect with the surroundings, fostering curiosity. Outdoor Education provides first hand exploration of the natural world and instills a lifelong appreciation for the planet. 255 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 5, ISSUE 04 PENINSULA SCHOOL DISTRICT