Kings County's Burris Park Outdoor Education Program welcomes naturalist Jean Goulart to growing program

The 90-day construction project began Sept. 23.

Goulart, a native Californian, was raised in the San Francisco Bay Area and is a UC Davis naturalist and an Early Childhood Education Program Director with a master’s degree in human development leadership in Education, Human Services Specialization.

Before moving to Hanford, Goulart created and cultivated her early childhood outdoor practice as owner of Bundle of Joy Nature Preschool Childcare, a certified Nature Explore Classroom and Outdoor Classroom Program (OCP) demonstration site.  Her passion for photography has earned awards, and through photography, she has the pleasure of documenting children's discovery of nature.

“I feel honored to be the steward of the Burris Park Outdoor Education Program and guide student’s discovery of nature. Each person I have met in the community that experienced the program in school hold fond memories to share with me of the park, museum, teachers, and friends,” said Goulart. She is eager to partner with Kings County teachers to inspire students to be life-long learners and proactive stewards of the environment.

Students will use the newly built amphitheater as a gathering spot for storytelling and demonstrations.  The amphitheater will be available for public use when not in use by the Outdoor Education Program. (For public reservations contact Kings County Public Works) The greenhouse offers the opportunity for multiple learning experiences and experiments. A dedication and open house are slated for early Spring 2020.

All Kings County schools are encouraged to schedule a visit to the Burris Park Outdoor Education Program.  The curriculum is available for preschool – high school, and after school programs. All public and private schools may attend FREE of charge.  Mileage reimbursement is also provided.  The Program is offered Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., August -June, excluding school holidays.

Reservations are on a first ask, first-serve basis. Dates are available for Fall & Spring.  Application and further information are available on our website: https://www.kingscoe.org/Page/378 or email: info.burrispark@kingscoe.org           

Burris Park Outdoor Education Program is a collaborative effort between the Burris Park Foundation, Kings County Office of Education, County of Kings Public Works, and Kings County Museum. The program is fully funded by Burris Park Foundation, thanks to a generous endowment from Mr. Donald Souza.  Burris Park Foundation also offers the Donald Souza Memorial Scholarship to all Kings County High School seniors continuing their education in ag-related occupations.  For more information about Burris Park Foundation, please email burrispark@kingscoe.org.