education – Center for teaching and learning

Join the Fairchild Challenge!

Testimonials from Students and Teachers

"The Fairchild Challenge, without a doubt, affected my life in more than one way… Not only did it open my eyes to the world around me, it also developed a greater appreciation for it.

Who knew that applying what I love to do — writing and speaking — to the environment could produce not only a sense of pride in my home, earth, but also a sense of responsibility to protect it."

"The experience I had with the Fairchild Challenge has changed my view on the people who care about the earth. I did not know that there where people who still cared about the earth and I was amazed at the things people are doing. There was nothing that I can think of that was negative about my experience — only wonderful memories of the people who made it possible."

"The Fairchild Challenge has made me more aware of the environment. It has altered my way of thinking on environmental issues. I'll admit I used to be somewhat of a litterbug; however, after realizing what an impact litter has on the environment, I've learned to cherish it and set forth a great effort in protecting it. Nowadays, I am an enforcer. Whenever, I see someone polluting, I say something about it."

"The Fairchild Challenge has let me see nature from a different perspective. Nature truly is a mother. She's given life to all and has provided all the necessities for life. I look forward to learning of new ways to protect her."

"While doing the children's book project, I got nostalgic for when I spent all day outside as a kid. I decided that I should spend more time outside, too. I walk the dog more and take more time to enjoy being outside and away from a computer screen."

My participation in the Fairchild Challenge greatly influenced my future career decision to become a biologist and to help preserve the wildlife of my local community.

My favorite part of the Fairchild Challenge was being able to participate in something that was bigger than me.

The Fairchild Challenge was exactly like it sounds. I was challenged to develop new skills and many of my skills were refined such as writing an environmental essay and thinking critically about how to overcome environmental problems.

Support from teachers:

"For us, the challenge has really made an impact on getting kids to connect to the environment in a more meaningful way… Thank you again for everything and for having such a positive impact on the lives of so many students."

— Mary Beth Nawor, Lake Forest High School

"The Fairchild Challenge Awards Ceremony was perfect. Lane Tech students, family members, and myself enjoyed ourselves thoroughly. Thank you for allowing us to celebrate all of our students' accomplishments."

— Dianne Lebryk, Lane Tech College Prep

QUESTIONS? EMAIL PROGRAM STAFF OR CALL (847) 835-8343.