Initial Publication Date: March 1, 2023

The Teacher Institute for Watershed Education and Conservation

https://theecologyschool.org/teacher-institute
Organization: The Ecology School

Content Area: Earth Science, Environmental Science, Other
Grade-level Audience: Intermediate (3-5), Middle (6-8), Primary (K-2)
When Offered: June to August
Cost: Expenses paid, Free, Stipend paid
Format: In-Person only
Application Deadline: Application Deadline: April 1, 2023
For More Information: meg@TheEcologySchool.org

Description

Join The Ecology School in Maine this July for an engaging and inspiring professional development opportunity. Teachers will be challenged to explore water's connection to human systems and its impacts on the environment. Immersed in field-based ecology lessons, attendees will have opportunities to network and collaborate with colleagues from schools around the country to reimagine their teaching to include outdoor learning, place-based experiences, and community partners. This opportunity is designed for K-8 classroom educators, but others may apply as well (e.g. high school teachers, school administration, non-profit educators, etc.)
Offered in two cohorts: attendees will attend either July 17 - 20 or July 27 - 30, 2023.
**The Institute is free for teachers, and attendees will receive a $250 stipend and be reimbursed for most travel. Event participation is face-to-face only. Attendees will receive 30 contact hours for participating, and are eligible to receive university credit and an additional $250 stipend for post-Institute implementation. Attendees may also apply for scholarships to cover additional expenses accrued during the training.**

"Some of the best PD I've attended and it was right in my own state, I highly recommend!" ~D. Allen

"I've been in this profession for 25 years, and this was the most impactful opportunity I've had professionally. And personally!" ~ B. Hallowell

What will you gain?

Attendees will gain:
* Content specific knowledge about water and watershed science and systems.
* Networking with nationwide cohort of educators
* Curriculum design time for new content, projects, and partnerships
* Collaboration with community partners and content experts
* Exploration of the coast of Maine and watershed related sites and ecosystems
* Time to reimagine opportunities for outdoor learning, place-based experiences, and work with community partners.

Who should apply?

Attendees whose applications fit these parameters will be considered first:
* Kindergarten - 8th teachers
* Ability to implement water and/or landform curriculum
* Have not attended a professional development event hosted by The Ecology School before
* Work within historically underserved, underrepresented and under-resourced communities
* Black, Indigenous, and Educators of Color
Other applicants are welcome to apply! Please contact Meg directly for more information (nonprofits, school administrators, early childhood and high school teachers, etc.)