Hear from our community~

 "The large outdoor playground area and access to the unique natural setting (Thurston Pond) have been an important part of my kids' education at Thurston. They've learned about gardening, environmental stewardship, and biology. They have had years of sports practices, field days, an other outdoor events, not to mention after school activities like Nature Navigators. This will all be reduced or eliminated with current building plans. Very sad."

 "I want my kids to be in a new building and out of the old, over-crowded one as soon as possible, but NOT at the expense of their learning environment. My oldest is currently enrolled at Thurston and has ADHD - trying to learn right next to active construction will NOT be good for his ability to concentrate, remain calm in class, and be able to learn. We need a better option than to force our kids to endure what is currently the plan - putting Gilbane's profits over our kids education!"

 "My son will be starting kindergarten at Thurston next year and I always loved that he would be attending a school with so much surrounding greenery and nature. This plan will take away what is so special about this school."
 

 "Not mentioned is the benefit of the nature center to the students. As a former Thurston student, the nature center was seminal in developing my love for the outdoors. It’s part of why I ended up with a wildlife biology degree. It’s part of why I worked for the National Park Service and other land management agencies for nearly a decade. I still live in the area. I’m still invested in the nature center. Please do not destroy this for future generations of Thurston students."

 “I have a four year old daughter that will be going to Thurston soon. We currently enjoy walking around the pond and seeing the rain gardens and oak savanna. We are very concerned about their conservation.”

 “As a Thurston alumni, the nature center was my favorite classroom. It helped me grow my love for nature and inspired me to be a scientist. Save the Nature Center so generations of kids can enjoy its beauty.”

"The Thurston Nature Center is a treasure for students at Thurston, Logan, and Clague as well as the surrounding community. It should be protected at all costs."