Riverway Learning Community (RLC) is a public charter school district whose mission is to nurture the growth of the mind, body and spirit of its students, both as individuals and as members of the larger community. In 2025, RLC received a $5,450 community grant from the Winona Community Foundation to host a free, public Earth Day event open to all. Having taken the event over from the local co-op, this was RLC’s first year hosting the celebration.
On April 7, Winonans enjoyed a day of free music and environment-focused educational activities. Kite flying, environmental stories, canoeing, hammocking, tree planting, giant bubbles, natural playscape activities and more were provided by partnering organizations.
RLC’s students got involved as well. Jamie Harper, local artist and Riverway staff, worked with students to collect recycled materials for a Procession of the Species Parade. Students created butterflies, fish, squids, mammal masks, earth hero shields and capes, and more. Megan Larkin, professional seamstress and Riverway parent, worked with students for six weeks to produce fashion items out of trash. A total of 20 pieces walked down the red (“green”) carpet at the event.
Overall, RLC hoped to educate attendees about the threats to our planet and provide opportunities for people to commit to eco-friendly behaviors. “The idea is that if you get to know the Earth and enjoy it, you are more likely to take care of it,” shared Lydia Boysen, media specialist at RLC. She also added, “This event was a joy to create and we are so thankful for the funding to get it started! We received good feedback and are hopeful for its future.”
This content is sourced from
Winona Community Foundation
. It reflects the author's views and has not been edited by our newsroom. It may have been generated using AI assistance.
