2013

Pupils take part in Forest Olympics and learn about geography in nature

A record number of reports from teachers on classes taught has been submitted for this year's Forest Olympics – 225, from 84 schools. This means that the theme of this school year – Geography in Forests, is of great interest to many. As a result, children from Latvia’s regions have had a special opportunity to learn their subjects alongside practical tasks in nature. The major activity and interest is highly satisfying. However, the jury had a hard time assessing the numerous reports and determining the six best who will meet in the semi-finals in May to compete for the top prize – a trip to Norwegian nature schools!

The classes created by teachers are of huge value in the Forest Olympics, and they can serve as inspiration to others!

JSC “Latvia's State Forests” thanks all participants and congratulates the most successful:

 The semi-finalists of the 2013 Forest Olympics:

·     Anita Anspoka, Sala Primary School, Babīte

·     Indāra Ceika, Salacgrīva Secondary School

·     Anda Freimane, Mazzalve Primary School

·     Silva Skride, Krāslava Primary School

·     Anna Greidāne, Jersika Primary School

·     Ināra Pilskunga, Limbaži Secondary School No.3

 Certificates of recognition go to:

·     Regīna Stikāne, Līvāni Secondary School No.1

·     Valentīna Pužule, Balvi State Gymnasium

·     Indra Būmane, Tukums E.Birznieks Upītis' Primary School No.1

·     Sandra Jekoviča, Ogresgals Primary School

·     Alla Grigorjeva, Vircava Secondary School

·     Anita Sudnika, Rīga Secondary School No.6

·     Gunita Pugeja, Stacija Primary School

·     Ligita Ridūze, Dzērbene Secondary School

·     Sandra Berķe, Ineši Primary School

·     Daiga Rudzīte, Limbaži Secondary School No.3

Those teachers who have received recognition will receive diplomas and their schools will be visited by the main hero of “Do Not Litter In Forests!” campaign – Pigman, in May. We will contact all semi-finalists and recognition honorees by April 19.

The jury of the 2013 Forest Olympics:

·     Māra Mīkule, the Agriculture Ministry's Forest Department

·     Velga Kakse, the National Centre for Education

·     Inese Liepiņa, the Interest Education and Further Education Department of the National Centre for Education

·     Inaīda Jagučanska, Tērvete Nature Park  

·     Anda Sproģe, JSC “Latvia's State Forests”

·     Līga Zute-Abizāre, JSC “Latvia's State Forests"

The goal of the Forest Olympics is to encourage teachers to incorporate in the school curriculum subjects that deal with learning new skills and gaining experience while visiting forests and nature. The event is organized by JSC “Latvia's State Forests” as part of the environmental education program “Learning about Forests”.