Feathers, scales, and wild tales: Earth Rangers take over Good Shepherd CES

June 2, 2025

It was a dynamic and interactive experience for students at Good Shepherd Catholic Elementary School in Courtice on May 30, 2025.

The Earth Rangers, a kids’ conservation organization, brought its school assembly program to the school’s gymnasium.

That included three animals: an Argentine tegu, peregrine falcon and bald eagle.

“It was a cool presentation. They showed animals, especially the bald eagle,” Meli Cramer, Grade 6 student. “I really enjoyed the hologram.”

“I thought it was really good,” added Madden Lowes, Grade 6 student. “I liked how they had games in it too.”

“It was great that they involved the audience in it,” said Payton Thompson, Grade 6 student.

Meli, Madden, and Payton all said their favourite animal that was shown was the bald eagle.

The presentation was led by Earth Rangers Braden and Makayla.

The event began with greetings from Ontario’s Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks and Durham MPP Todd McCarthy.

He spoke to the students about environmental conservation, specifically protecting water and wildlife.

“Two thirds of Ontario is covered in forests and we have four of the five Great Lakes, the largest source of freshwater in the world,” McCarthy said. “With that gift from God, comes awesome responsibility to protect our land, air and water now and for future generations. We all must play our part.”

Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington (PVNC) Catholic District School Board Director of Education Stephen O’Sullivan and Board Chair Kevin MacKenzie also attended the assembly.

Following the event, each student was offered a free membership with the Earth Rangers to continue learning and participating in environmentally-friendly activities and challenges and to get involved in conservation projects at home.