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Native Landscapes

Activity

Discover the Plants Near You

Sanchez Elementary is surrounded by a variety of beautiful native plants. As you explore the area around the school, see how many you can identify.

Science Seed

Sanchez Elementary is surrounded by vibrant, native plants, that contribute to Austin’s unique ecosystem. On the school grounds, colorful plants like Texas bluebonnets, black-eyed Susan, and lantana attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, while native grasses and shrubs add beauty and texture to the landscape. Species such as the Mexican hat and Engelmann’s daisy add diversity to the area, showcasing the natural richness of Central Texas. In nearby green spaces, plants like Texas sage, prickly pear, and yucca help support local wildlife and stabilize the soil. These native plants not only beautify the area but also help to stabilize soil, improve water quality, and support a rich web of life.

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earn Badges

Badges can be earned through hands-on experiences within each of the 16 branches of science, or “Science Slices.” You can earn a badge in each branch of science by doing four activities in these categories. We also encourage participants to keep a Nature Journal to record their memories, and to express themselves creatively through writing or drawing after each activity. We recommend that each child (and parent if they’d like) write or draw in a journal after each activity, with expectations of your children that match their age (the goal is self-expression, not perfection).

Explore Sanchez Elementary

join Families in Nature

It is our vision to inspire all families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists. Becoming a member of Families in Nature will give your family the opportunity to have adventures in nature, experience field science, develop as youth conservation leaders, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Memberships are free for everyone.

Who are we?

Families in Nature works to create opportunities for nature connection with the purpose of sparking a deep love and desire to protect, conserve and restore the environment. Our mission is to connect children and their families to nature and to each other through time spent learning, playing, and volunteering outdoors. It is our vision to inspire ALL families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists.

Sánchez Elementary School is close to downtown on Austin’s east side. Built in 1976, the campus boasts murals by Raul Valdez depicting the school’s Hispanic history and heritage. Sánchez was one of the district’s first to introduce two-way dual language education- fitting because the school’s namesake, George Sánchez, was a pioneer in bilingual education. This project was made possible by HEB.