Our environmental education programs are available to public and private schools, homeschool groups, and extracurricular organizations such as Scouts and school clubs. Each lesson is designed to connect students to nature, inspire curiosity, and empower them to make positive impacts on their environment. By engaging students in real-world science and outdoor exploration, we aim to nurture the next generation of environmental stewards and help teachers strengthen their STEM curriculum with hands-on, place-based learning experiences.
We can accommodate a variety of class sizes, with a standard rate of $200 per session. One educator is provided for approximately 25 students; larger groups or creek-based programs may require additional educators for a small added fee. Discounts are available for Title I schools, and grant funding may be available to help offset program costs.
Read about our lesson structures below. Email [email protected] and [email protected] to learn more about scheduling classes, customizing lessons, and exploring funding support.
Creek & Water Lessons
Held at nearby creeks, our water-focused programs bring watershed science to life. Many of these lessons can be adapted to in-class settings.
- Watershed & Stormwater Runoff: Students learn about watersheds and how land use within the watershed impacts water health. They will understand the changes affected by impervious surfaces, buildings, land use, etc. (Grades 4–12)
- Enviroscape Interactive Model: Using a large 3D model, students can see how pollution travels through a watershed and brainstorm solutions to reduce nonpoint source pollution. We illustrate how common actions (such as road salt and fertilizer use) can lead to pollution downstream and share pollution solutions. This engaging, visual activity is ideal for all ages and is always a crowd favorite.
- Macroinvertebrate Study: Students roll up their sleeves to collect and identify aquatic insects and other stream life. They’ll discover how these small creatures serve as indicators of water quality and the health of the ecosystem. While we think being in the creek is the best approach to this lesson, preserved samples can be brought into the classroom to accommodate. (Grades K–12)
- Chemical Water Testing: For older students, this lesson adds a scientific layer to their fieldwork, testing water for pH, dissolved oxygen, and other factors that affect stream health, connecting the chemicals in the water to the actions on the land. (Grades 5–12)
Seasonal & Wildlife Lessons
Available either at Rolling Hill Park, at our cottage and surrounding land, or right on your school grounds. Students might learn about how animals adapt to winter through learning about hibernation and feeling real animal pelts, dissect owl pellets to explore food webs, join bird call walks, or go on bug hunts to discover the creatures that live under logs and leaves. We also offer exploratory nature play sessions that encourage creativity and sensory engagement with the natural world.
Native Plant Lessons
Through our native plant programs, students learn how native species support biodiversity, provide critical habitat, and protect local waterways. Lessons can include planting native species on school grounds or in community restoration areas, depending on available funding and season. These activities connect ecology, and stewardship of the land in a memorable and interactive way.