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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 fittingly an eagle.
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,” said Principal Maria Martinez.
“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 live cam… 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.
Jackie’s well-documented life and legacy will live on. Her life was cut short by illness, but serves as a reminder that the next generation is ready to spread their wings – like her two eaglets that left the nest last month and never looked back.
“Our motto this year is ‘Soaring with Purpose’ so that really hits home,” Martinez said.
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