Home > What's it about? > What is Shady Creek? > Program Goals Program Goals Primary goals and objectives: 1. To develop in each individual an enthusiasm for learning and exploration. 2. To develop in each individual heightened observation skills to more fully observe and appreciate the beauty and diversity of the natural environment. 3. To develop in each individual a feeling of personal responsibility to help preserve, conserve , and enhance our environment. 4. To develop in each individual a feeling of self-confidence and self-acceptance. To promote cooperation among all students and appreciation for the uniqueness of others. Secondary Goals and objectives: 1. To facilitate interaction between pupils, teachers, and professional naturalists. 2. To provide guidance and understanding as the pupil is placed in a new social environment and adjusts to:   a) living with new friends,   b) being away from home,   c) relating to school connected adults as friends and guests,   d) eating food other than what may be usual at the family table, and   e) getting information first-hand by doing. 3. To heighten appreciation for all living things and for the beauty of our environment; to provide the opportunity to become absorbed in learning without rushing to another learning; and to quietly observe alone without being observed. 4. To stimulate the pupil to learn from the model set by adults in the dining room, on hikes, in classes, at study areas, and in recreation. Models include adults showing kindness, tolerance, eagerness to learn, unselfishness, and other valued behavior traits we wish children to adopt.