Greenbelt Hosts GovsPLUS Students for a Day of Exploration and Discovery

Earlier this month, Greenbelt hosted a curious and enthusiastic group of students from Lawrence at Vineyard Hill Reservation in Hamilton for a day of learning and outdoor exploration. The students are participants in the GovsPLUS summer academic enrichment program at The Governor's Academy.

Led by dedicated Greenbelt volunteers Laurie Hark and Mary Ellen Kelly — who also serves on Greenbelt's Board of Directors — the students took part in a scavenger hunt that introduced them to a range of topics related to forest ecosystems, wildlife, and natural history while fostering a sense of teamwork and adventure.

"The students really enjoyed working together in small groups and exploring on their own," says Mary Ellen. “A key component of this activity was finding their way through Vineyard Hill independently to various checkpoints where volunteers were stationed. Everyone — participants and volunteers alike — seemed to be engaged and have a lot of fun.”

GovsPLUS (Powerful Learners Unlocking Success) is a tuition-free program hosted by The Governor's Academy in Byfield for motivated middle school students from Lawrence. The program provides students with opportunities to expand their learning through engaging educational experiences both on and off campus.

Greenbelt's partnership with GovsPLUS began in 2022, thanks to longtime Greenbelt friend and former Board member Spencer Purinton, a trustee of The Governor's Academy.