Schmied earns environmental honor

The East Lake Washington Audubon has recognized John Schmied as one of its 2007 Environmentalists of the Year.

Schmied, a teacher at Skyview Junior High, uses curriculum focused on the investigative process using human and environmental health themes. For the past three years, he’s served as project manager for the Skyview Outdoor Environmental Learning Center. With private donations and more than 5,000 hours of community service, he established a wetland area for birds and breeding amphibians at the center’s 5.5 acres, located on school property in partnership with the Washington Trails Association.

Kenmore preschool offers new class

The Lake Forest Park Cooperative Preschool, a longstanding community preschool affiliated with Shoreline Community College, has announced the addition of a new class for the 2008-2009 school year. The Mixed Age Class, designed for students 3-5 years old and their parent/caregiver, will be offered from 3-5:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays.

This class will serve to reach many of the families that have not been able to attend the traditional daytime cooperative preschool classes, as well as bring in new members that are looking for afternoon activities to participate in with their child.

Cooperative preschools provide members with their first formal opportunity to become involved in their children’s education. Children attend both days, one day with their parent, and both benefit by receiving guidance and support of a skilled educator. Co-op also develops a sense of community for all by linking parents together in parent educational opportunities and family activities.

Lake Forest Park Cooperative Preschool, 6124 N.E. 181st St. in Kenmore, is currently accepting new members into the Mixed Age Class. For information or to register, visit www.lfppreschool.org or call (425) 486-3466.

April 12 will be

Arbor Day in Bothell

The city of Bothell has proclaimed April 12 as Arbor Day and invites its citizens to a community planting event that same day beginning at 10 a.m. at William Penn Park (19901 100th Ave. N.E., Bothell).

Trees and plants that meet the needs of the park will be planted during this event. Tools and light refreshments will be provided; volunteers are asked to bring their own gloves. Participating groups of six or more can contact Julie Welke in Parks and Recreation Department at (425) 486-7430 by April 10 for planning purposes.