On Earth Day, third and fourth-grade students at St. Bernard School embarked on a special project: building birdhouses to celebrate and support local wildlife. This annual tradition, spanning 23 years, has become a beloved event for Mrs. Waack, a fourth-grade teacher at the school. Armed with drills and hammers, the enthusiastic students eagerly dove into their work, guided by Mrs. Waack’s expert instructions.
Bishop Hall buzzed with excitement as the children assembled the wooden pieces, transforming them into cozy homes for feathered friends. The project would not have been possible without the support of several volunteers who generously gave their time to assist the students. They created an assembly line where students were able to use power tools to assemble the sides, roof, and door and then use a hammer to create a small perch for birds.
Through this hands-on activity, the students not only honed their woodworking skills but also learned about the importance of environmental conservation. They discovered how providing shelter for birds can contribute to a healthier ecosystem, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature.
“I have been doing this project for over 23 years, and it is something that I truly love. Altogether, I have probably helped create over 1,000 birdhouses with students,” said Mrs. Waack. “I have heard from many parents over the years say how much their children loved this project and that they still have their birdhouse in their backyard from years ago. That makes me smile.”
As the afternoon drew to a close, the students proudly admired their creations, knowing that they had made a positive impact on their environment. Mrs. Waack’s commitment to this project has not only inspired generations of students but has also left a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship in her classroom.
“I am so excited to take my birdhouse home!” said Sam, a fourth-grade student. “It was really fun to make, and it felt cool knowing that I was going to help out our Earth.”
Through projects like this, the students and staff at St. Bernard are creating a brighter future for our planet. To see photos from this experience, visit the school’s social media pages on Facebook and Instagram.
St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.
