School Engagement

Students in school today are the most diverse generation in US History. Connect with school groups to transform students into stewards.

• Create Curriculum Aligned-Programs - Begin by understanding the local school curriculum. Design programs that align with student’s classroom learning. Websites like Next Generation Science Standards can help link nature-based activities with academic content.

• Offer Teacher Training Workshops - Invite teachers to workshops that introduce them to the resources your center or park offers. Equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to integrate nature-based learning into their teaching.

• Self-Guided Resources - Items like nature activity journals engage students with place-based activities that supplement teacher-led programming. 

• Provide Digital Resources - In today's digital age, complementing physical visits with online resources is crucial. Offer virtual tours, lesson plans, and interactive online activities that teachers can utilize in their classrooms. Post Pigeon Edu is a non-profit whose platform connects site and students with virtual postcards—we highly recommend.

• Bring Your Site to Schools - Many schools face financial or administrative pushback when trying to get their students out of the classroom. Offering schools the option to bring interpretive items, staff, or programming to them at the school can be a great start towards a long-term connection or even future site visits.

• Foster Long-term Relationships - Aim for ongoing partnerships rather than one-off visits. This could be in the form of seasonal visits, year-long projects, or even multi-year programs where students return at different grade levels.

• Promote Stewardship Projects - Engage students in service-learning projects that promote conservation and stewardship. Whether it's tree planting, invasive species removal, or community science, students can gain a sense of ownership and responsibility for their local environment.