March 10, 2008 – Kenmore, WA

The Saint Edward Environmental Learning Center, a new nonprofit in town, announces its first year of offering free environmental education to children, families, and adults in our community.  Beginning on March 26, 2008, the Saint Edward Environmental Learning Center (SEELC) in partnership with Washington State Parks and Saint Edward State Park will present a series of environmental and recreational courses that will be free and open to the public.  The 2008 SEELC Program includes hands-on courses that will teach about topics such as sustainable architecture, birds, soils, owls, trees, natural history, bats, native plants, orienteering, and poetry in the park. The 2008 SEELC program also includes a play - Midsummer Night's Dream – a theatrical celebration of summer, Saint Edward State Park, and the arts.

The Saint Edward Environmental Learning Center is a nonprofit community-based organization dedicated to creating a sustainable future through park preservation, community collaboration, and innovative educational experiences.  In addition to offering a series of environmental education classes, the SEELC is leading a grassroots initiative to preserve the historic Saint Edward Seminary building for use as an educational, cultural, and historic center dedicated to a sustainable environment.

“All of our instructors and artists are graciously donating their time and expertise to offer these classes while Washington State Parks and Saint Edward State Park are donating the use of the park and classroom space,” said Colleen Ponto, SEELC Founder and Board President.  “It’s really a unique partnership and one that we are very excited about and grateful for," she added.

To find out more about the 2008 SEELC Environmental Education Program and to register for courses visit: www.seelc.org or call 425-489-0549.