Sierra Nevada Journeys (SNJ) held a Taking STEM Outside: Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Bootcamp 2018, May 4 -6, for K-12 Nevada and California educators. This hands-on workshop was a combination of learning how to incorporate Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) into the classroom with Project Learning Tree (PLT) training. Over 100 educators, including administrators, STEM specialists, multi-grade K-12 teachers and preservice teachers, attended the training which was held at SNJ Grizzly Creek Ranch Campus in Portola, CA.  “This was hands-down our most successful teacher PD event in years.  We’re hearing from teachers that our blend of outdoor education and Project Learning Tree training, NGSS instruction and social emotional learning supports combine for a powerful professional learning opportunity.  We couldn’t have made this happen without support from Project Learning Tree and Sustainable Forestry Initiative!”, exclaimed Sean Hill, SNJ Education Director. NAAEE also provided funding for this 3 day teacher professional development adventure as well. One participant summed up the event by stating, “The content was perfect. I came for ideas on outdoor science which I got, but an added bonus was the team building exercises. The instructors were excellent.”

Please visit https://www.sierranevadajourneys.org/ to discover more innovative outdoor science-based education programs for youth.

By James Riley McGirt, Project Learning Tree GreenSchools Manager & Moderator NAAEE eePro Green Schools