Brevard – Brevard College, in collaboration with the National Park Service (NPS) and Transylvania County Schools (TCS), has undertaken a special project aimed at protecting peregrine falcons. Over the past year, student teachers from the Brevard College Teacher Education program have worked with elementary and middle school students in Transylvania County to design a series of educational signs for the Devil’s Courthouse trail, as well as social media and other educational materials. The NPS staff has provided the funding for this initiative, having completed a proposal and project outline.
Two Brevard College students, Kat Kramer ’24 and Bailey Lance ’24, have developed grade level-specific lesson plans aligned with the science standards of North Carolina, all in connection with the project. After engaging in these learning activities, 13 students submitted their artwork for publication.
Courtney Morgan, the Childhood Education Program Coordinator at Brevard College, expressed her enthusiasm about the unique learning experience provided to both the teachers and students involved in the project. She commended the partnership between Brevard College, NPS, and TCS, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on the students’ work.
Tessa Brown, representing Transylvania County Schools, also spoke highly of the collaboration, highlighting the opportunity it provided for students to witness their creative works coming to life. She noted the educational value of the experience, which will leave a lasting impact on the students’ lives.
According to the NPS, peregrine falcons have made their nests in the cliffs near the popular Devil’s Courthouse overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the most frequented national parks. Unfortunately, the falcons are often frightened away by hikers and sightseers. The loud voices, flying drones, and disregard for the established barrier wall disturb the birds, preventing them from successfully nesting.
While there were already signs posted along the trail to raise awareness, it is hoped that the new signs, designed by the students, will be more visually appealing and inspire visitors to better adhere to the trail rules.
All the selected artwork will be utilized in various ways to promote the project. Keep an eye out for this local student artwork and information on how to protect peregrine falcons on NPS social media platforms and at Devil’s Courthouse this summer.
Brevard College remains committed to providing an experiential liberal arts education that fosters personal growth and encourages artistic, intellectual, and social action.