Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney tells the story of Alice Rumphius, who dreams of traveling the world and making it more beautiful. Inspired by her adventures, she decides to plant lupines across her town, bringing joy to others. This gentle story teaches young readers about kindness, environmental stewardship, and the importance of leaving a positive mark on the world. It encourages children to think about how they, too, can make a difference in their communities.

Miss Rumphius is a helpful tool to provide engaging and practical lessons within our curriculum. Here are a few examples:

• Environmental Stewardship: Students will plan and execute a project that mirrors Miss Rumphius’s quest to make the world more beautiful. This may involve planting flowers, starting a recycling project, or any environmentally friendly activity that enhances their community.
• Writing and Reflection: Students are tasked with writing assignments that reflect on how they can make a positive impact on the world, inspired by Miss Rumphius's actions.
• Art and Creativity: Students create their interpretations of Miss Rumphius's world, focusing on the theme of beauty and conservation.
• Character Study and Moral Lessons: Miss Rumphius's character provides rich material for discussions about citizenship, the virtues of kindness and perseverance, and the impact of individual actions on society.