Eco-Journal, v.17.3 May/June 2007

Butterfly Workshop for Educators
Monarch Teacher Network Canada

By Jan Kushnier

How many of you have marveled at the beauty of a Monarch butterfly, or watched in wonder as a caterpillar munched its way through a patch of milkweed?

The Monarch Teacher Network (MTN) began in New Jersey in 2001 when 18 American teachers were trained to use monarch butterflies as a teaching tool in the classroom. In 2004, Monarch Teacher Network Canada was formed, and in the summer of 2006, the first Monarch Workshop was held in Winnipeg. I was fortunate to be amongst the 50 participants in that workshop.

For three packed days, teachers from Canada and the U.S.A. shared their knowledge, experience, and resources. Through presentations and hands-on activities I learned to use the Monarch as a way to teach science, literacy, social science, and art. I also learned ways to connect the Monarch to cultural, environmental and global issues. It´s a great way to connect to the excitement of a child who brings a butterfly or caterpillar to the classroom, and wants to know more.

Each fall these Monarchs begin a 4000 km journey to Mexico—the longest migration of any insect in the world! Yearly, MTN offers two one-week trips to Mexico to visit two Monarch sanctuaries and learn more about the Mexican culture. These trips are open to teachers who have participated in the Monarch Workshop. I had the experience of a lifetime when I joined a tour this past March. To see and hear the fluttering of thousands of tiny orange and black wings is indescribable! Knowing that I will soon be greeting the great grandchildren of those Monarchs has made me plan for more milkweed in my garden this summer. I would encourage you to begin your journey into learning and teaching using the Monarch.

Sign up early for the Monarch Workshop to be held in Winnipeg this July 24, 25 and 26. Space is limited. Info can be found on the Science Teachers´ Association of Manitoba website, or visit http://www.monarchcanada.org. Once infected, you may have to join “MA’—Monarchs Anonymous!