Bald eagle Jackie's death turns into lesson in nature and grief for SoCal students
BIG BEAR, Calif. (KABC) -- Beloved bald eagle Jackie left a lasting impact beyond Big Bear that also spanned across generations, reaching even the youngest nature enthusiasts.
For students like the fifth graders at Graciano Gomez Elementary School in San Bernardino, Jackie's death has been a lesson in nature, relationships and perseverance. The school's mascot is the eagle and the motto for this school year is "Soaring with Purpose."
Following the news of her death Monday, teachers quickly turned afternoon lessons into a celebration of the eagle whose journey resonated with kids and adults alike.
"She may not be with us physically, but she's still with us emotionally in our hearts," said 5th grader Aaliyah Richardson.
Teachers also used Jackie's passing as an opportunity to teach students about grief.
"Grief is not always easy and I know some of our students might be going through similar situations where they've lost a loved one," one teacher said.
"So some activities that we would recommend they do is journal, perhaps they can talk to an adult about... their favorite memory that they saw when they were looking at the livecam... Going out in nature and enjoying other animals that they can identify and see."
Millions around the world tuning in to watch Jackie and her mate Shadow on the Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV) live eagle nest cam over the years.
Fans followed Jackie's life for more than a decade on the FOBBV live camera. She raised several eaglets in the nest over the years.
