Green Hills School in Chbaniyeh, Mount Lebanon, has officially joined the Hima Green School network—an important milestone in promoting environmental education in Lebanon. This initiative, led by the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL), integrates nature-based learning into school curricula, encouraging students to engage with and protect their natural surroundings.
To mark this partnership, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between SPNL and Green Hills School, represented by Head of School Ms. Hind Bou Raslan. As part of the agreement, Ms. Bou Raslan appointed two coordinators—Ms. Suzane El Halabi and Ms. Diala Shaaban Gharzideen—to lead the implementation of the SNOW Program (School with No Walls), an innovative educational model that promotes outdoor, experiential learning.
Following the signing, SPNL conducted an orientation session with the coordinators and three additional educators who will support the program: Ms. Nada Masri, Ms. Siham Daou Gharzideen, and Mr. Majd Awar, a science teacher. During the session, SPNL introduced the core values of the Hima approach and shared strategies for embedding it into the school’s academic framework.
Expressing her excitement, Ms. Suzane El Halabi said:
“This program is incredibly interesting and engaging for our children. It offers them a unique opportunity to learn about the concept of Hima, the beauty of nature, and the importance of biodiversity in a hands-on and meaningful way.”
Ms. Diala Shaaban Gharzideen emphasized the alignment between the program and Montessori principles:
“Encouraging children to explore their natural environment through experiential learning is essential. The SNOW Program perfectly complements our teaching philosophy by nurturing curiosity, independence, and a deep appreciation for nature.”
Mr. Rami Kadro, Director of the Luc Hoffmann Hima Center (LHHC) in Mount Lebanon, introduced SPNL’s broader conservation efforts and invited teachers to organize student visits to the center to deepen their connection with nature.
Mr. Hamada Malaeb, Director of the Douroub Al Hima Program, highlighted the role of the Hima Green School network in helping children discover Lebanon’s natural and cultural treasures. He emphasized the importance of fostering a strong sense of place and responsibility among students.
Adding to this, Mr. Andre Bechara, Director of the SNOW Program, shared his vision for the initiative:
“Our goal with the SNOW Program is to reimagine the way children learn by taking education beyond the classroom walls. By connecting with nature, students develop not only environmental awareness but also critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence—all essential skills for a more sustainable and compassionate future.”
By joining the Hima Green School network, Green Hills School affirms its commitment to environmental education and sustainability. This partnership will provide students with immersive opportunities to learn from nature, cultivate a love for biodiversity, and become responsible stewards of Lebanon’s rich natural heritage.
