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At The Head Of Nature's Class

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: March 16, 2009

Nature's Classroom was rededicated the other day to mark the completion of a $4 million renovation of the environmental education center on the banks of the Hillsborough River.

It was a reminder of what a wonderful community asset this 365-acre refuge is. It is also a reminder of what can be accomplished when private enterprises take an interest in education.

Since 1968, more than 400,000 Hillsborough County students have taken classes at Nature's Classroom, learning about Florida's ecosystems and getting to see wildlife firsthand. For some, it is their first experience with the outdoors.

The tract is owned by the Southwest Florida Water Management District. The Hillsborough County school system operates the education facility, which also welcomes private schools.

Lack of funding nearly closed Nature's Classroom in the 1990s. Its facilities were in disrepair. But the public protested, and the school system reconsidered.

The Hillsborough Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization that raises private donations for the school system, began seeking money for renovations. A committee led by former Gov. Bob Martinez and Amy Shimberg diligently raised the money needed to overhaul the center, building new classrooms, shelters, docks, restrooms and natural habitats for the animals kept there.

Now, thanks to the dozens of private companies, public agencies and individuals who contributed to Nature's Classroom - including TECO, Publix and Bright House Networks - kids for generations to come will be able to learn about natural Florida. Everyone involved in this worthy effort merits the community's gratitude.

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