A FREE Professional Development Experience for Educators
 
During this four-day teacher institute, 8th -12th grade science teachers will explore and compare several unique coastal ecosystems through inquiry-based, hands-on activities, evaluating human impacts on these systems alongside scientists and expert environmental educators. Teachers will gain updated content knowledge and instructional resources designed to foster student learning of watershed science and stimulate awareness of actions that promote watershed stewardship. Content and activities are aligned with the NC Essential Standards for 8th Grade Science, Earth/Environmental Science and AP Environmental Science.

Hands-on, real world, and STEM-based experiences will be emphasized – be prepared to get wet, sandy and re-energized!

APPLY NOW!

“This is the best workshop I have ever attended. I am forever grateful for the resources to fill my entire hydrosphere unit.” – 2019 Participant

Participants will:

• Actively participate in hands-on and STEM-based experiences in North Carolina's coastal aquatic ecosystems
• Engage with a variety of outstanding environmental educators, researchers and scientists
• Gain knowledge about current watershed science, human impacts to coastal watersheds and strategies to protect watersheds

Participants will receive:

• A wealth of new ideas and instructional resources including curriculum-related materials
• An opportunity to network with colleagues in a relaxed professional development setting
• Excellent food and lodging at beautiful Trinity Center in Salter Path, NC  
• CEU and Environmental Education Certification Credits
   

Participants will be expected to:

• Commit to the entire institute
• Incorporate learned skills and experiences into your lesson plans and teaching 
• Share their experiences and mentor other teachers in your school or system
• Participate in evaluation of the program.
• Be in good physical condition.  Activities will include hiking, walking, wading, etc., in potentially hot, humid conditions.