Environmental literacy, community action
Our lesson series are designed to provide teachers with the confidence and resources to advance environmental literacy in their classrooms. This summer, we invite 3rd–5th grade teachers to pilot one or more of our lesson series.
The CAELI Community-Based Partner Hub is a portal that connects K–12 teachers and administrators to environmental education community-based partners and their programs. Find experiential learning opportunities for your students today!
| The Wildlands Conservancy Wind Wolves Preserve is in an ecologically unique region where the Transverse Ranges, Coast Ranges, Sierra Nevada, western Mojave Desert and San Joaquin Valley influences converge. For more than 30 years, the Wildlands Conservancy has worked to preserve the beauty and biodiversity of the earth and to provide programs so that children may know the wonder and joy of nature |  |
| Due to elevation ranges from 640 to 6,005 feet, the Wind Wolves Preserve has an impressive array of landforms and habitats that serve as a critical landscape linkage and wildlife corridor between the Coast Ranges and Sierra Nevada. The 93,000 acre preserve offers more than just breathtaking views – it’s a sanctuary for wildlife, a place for refuge for the spirit, and most importantly, a classroom under the sky. On the San Joaquin Valley floor, the Preserve is a 30-square-mile veritable sea of grasslands with remnant stands of saltbush. These grasslands are home to the endangered San Joaquin kit fox and blunt-nosed leopard lizard as well as one of the largest stands of the endangered Bakersfield cactus. The Preserve’s main wetland is home to the Buena Vista Lake ornate shrew—one of the most endangered mammals in the United States. Rolling grasslands rise from the valley floor, transitioning into classic California blue oak and valley oak savanna with extensive riparian wetlands. The oak savanna ascends into juniper and pinyon forests that vault into stands of ponderosa pine and big cone spruce. Volunteers have played a major role in working with staff to restore this heroic landscape. Fourteen years of monthly work parties have removed invasive tamarisk from 30 miles of stream channels. Volunteers have made miles of boundary fencing antelope friendly, as well as make kit fox dens for the recruitment of kit foxes. And volunteers through school, family work parties, and collaborating organizations have planted tens of thousands of native trees and shrubs. The preserve includes the entire San Emidio Land Grant, once owned by John C. Fremont. Wind Wolves’ rich cultural history includes some of the most noteworthy Native American rock art in North America. |
 | Wind Wolves Preserve offers students and families opportunities to hike, bike, picnic, view wildlife and wildflowers, go birdwatching, and camp. Free School Programs and public programs are available. They promote a Leave No Trace philosophy asking visitors to pack out what they pack in. They encourage respect for all wildlife and to learn through observation. They also ask for everyone to be courteous to others so everyone enjoys their outdoor experience |
| For many children, the first time they spot a majestic hawk soaring above or uncover the delicate pattern of animal tracks along a trail, something awakens. These moments of wonder spark not just curiosity but a profound connection — one that The Wildlands Conservancy believes can grow into a lifelong passion for conservation. Each year, Wildlands naturalists and docents lead free outdoor education programs at Wind Wolves Preserve for thousands of school children from across Kern County. Targeted to public schools in underserved and under-resourced communities, this is more than just a field trip — it’s a rite of passage, a transformative experience that fosters a connection to nature and inspires a love for the Earth. |  |
| “The Preserve is a place for learning, but also a place to feel peace, it’s a refuge.” |
| For Sherryl Clendenen, biologist and outdoor educator who worked for Wildlands from 1998 to 2015, Wind Wolves Preserve was the perfect venue to integrate science and history into the lives of local students in a way that made learning come alive. As a child, Sherryl had struggled with traditional forms of learning—textbooks and classroom lectures left her feeling disconnected from the material. Fortunately for Sherryl, her father understood the real world was the best teacher and he took her outdoors, where nature became her classroom. This hands-on learning shaped her philosophy and later guided her work at Wind Wolves Preserve, where she built the outdoor education program from the ground up. |  |
| Sherryl’s early experiences taught her something profound: humans are not separate from nature, but part of it. She remembers learning in school that human activity caused many environmental issues, leading her to believe the only way to save the wilderness was to keep humans away. But when she was outside with her father, she saw things differently. Being immersed in the wild didn’t lead her to fear human impact; instead, it taught her to love and respect nature. Sherryl sought to pass on these same lessons through the outdoor education program at Wind Wolves Preserve, which has welcomed over 210,000 local students since it originated in 1998. Today, Wildlands has expanded its Outdoor Discovery Program to serve students throughout the state of California across its Preserve system, offering schoolchildren and families the chance to build that deep, personal relationship with nature. Our naturalists, rangers and docents understand that education isn’t just about facts and figures; it’s about fostering relationships —with the land, with the plants and animals, and with each other. To save the environment, “Sherryl believes, “we must have a connection to it, a love for it.” This belief is woven into the fibers of Wildlands Outdoor Discovery Program, which aims to inspire not just knowledgeable individuals, but future stewards of the Earth. |
 | Dates: July 10-August 26, 2026 Location: Online Description: This eeCourse equips educators with the knowledge, skills, tools, and resources to take environmental education learning outdoors. Participants will learn strategies such as managing students outdoors, adapting for the weather, and using technology outdoors. This eeCourse provides an introduction to environmental education; strategies to support outdoor learning like managing students, adapting for weather, and using technology outdoors; and ideas on how to integrate teaching and learning outdoors into your classrooms, homeschool classrooms, and programs. This roughly 6-week course takes approximately 15 hours to complete. Register HERE. |
 | Date: July 14, 2026 Location: Online Description: Offered in partnership with Take Me Outside. Registration is free for all of the monthly virtual workshops. Each workshop lasts 60 minutes. The July workshop is on Activities and Resources for Nature-Based Learning. Spending time in nature, year round helps develop a sense of belonging. When we belong we feel connected, nourished, and alive. In this workshop our expert presenters will share ideas, activities and inspiration from their water, nature, Land and camp curriculums. Educators presenting include Jacob Rodenburg, Maxine Koskie, and Court Rustemeyer. Register HERE. |
 | Dates:September 8 – December 15, 2026 Location: Virtual Description: Looking to start or enhance a garden education program, or bring more hands-on learning into your teaching? Bring learning to life through the garden – transform your teaching practice through garden-based learning. The 16-week virtual course offers a Life Lab Garden Education Certification Designed for classroom teachers, informal educators, afterschool staff, and school garden coordinators alike. This program helps educators of all kinds bring hands-on, meaningful learning outdoors. Gain practical tools, confidence in garden-based learning, and connection to a respected national network of educators. Sign up HERE. |
  | Date: September 15-16, 2026 Locations: Pasadena, CA Description: This year marks the 20-year anniversary of Green Technology, a momentous milestone that celebrates two decades of advancing sustainability, innovation, and collaboration across California’s public sector. Over the past twenty years, Green Technology has brought together educators, facilities leaders, policymakers, and solution providers to accelerate progress toward healthier environments and more resilient communities. We are bringing together our two flagship events (Sustainable Facilities Forum and the Green California Schools & Higher Education Summit) for ONE unforgettable 20-year celebration for the Public Sector we serve; State, Local Government, Schools, and Higher Education all in one place at one time! Register HERE. |
 | Date: October 6-9, 2026 Location: Portland, Oregon Description: Registration is now open for NAAEE’s Annual Conference and Research Symposium. Join more than 1,000 attendees as they imagine and advance solutions grounded in research and practice, inspired by place, and strengthened through collaboration. With themes from connecting with nature to advancing sustainable communities, this event invites everyone to consider what becomes possible when education drives connection, action, and positive change. For more information and registration, click HERE. |
  | Date: November 6-8, 2026 Location: Sacramento, CA Description: Registration is now open for the annual California Science Education Conference, the premier event for science educators across California! Hear motivational speakers and gain practical knowledge to be the best science educator, attend high–quality workshops and courses led by educators and experts, network with friends, educators, and supporters throughout California. There will be unique and engaging opportunities to share with and learn from other educators, get timely updates to help with curriculum materials, assessment, and testing, and have fun with the science community during socials and more! For more information and registration, click HERE. |
 | Date: November 10-13, 2026 Location: Oakland, CA Description: This year’s theme, “Creating Community Rooted in Interpretation,” celebrates how we grow together through shared stories, inclusive practices, and connections that sustain both people and the planet. From inspiring keynotes and engaging hands-on experiences and sessions, to local field trip exploration highlighting the Bay Area’s cultural and natural heritage, this conference invites you to dig in, branch out, and flourish together. Check out the all new conference agenda to see how we are mixing it up this year with more interaction, more engagement and more opportunities for you to meet new people and create community! Come ready to be inspired, challenged, and connected! Because when interpreters put down roots, communities thrive! For more information and registration, click HERE. |
 | Description: The internationally bestselling author of Last Child in the Woods, Richard Louv returns with his most personal book yet. Noticing is about discovering who you are by exploring the natural world. Louv shows how, by tapping into the thirty or more human senses we have, readers can develop skills—sensory, scientific, artistic, and spiritual—to see and experience the otherworlds of nature. Through personal essays, rich with descriptions of the California wilderness around his home in the most biodiverse county in the nation, Louv draws on wisdom from influences as far-reaching as neuroscience, nature photography, Indigenous traditions, and mindfulness to foster what he calls “bioenchantment.” He offers a new, deeper understanding of what it means to see a tree, know a fox, and to become fully human. |
 | Description: School, work and busy schedules can make it hard to find time for nature. The Vitamin N Challenge can help — connecting you to ideas, inspiration and a community of people who are committed to spending quality time outdoors with the kids they care about. Setting and committing to a goal will help you get more Vitamin N (for “Nature”), whether you are working toward a day, a week or months of more time outdoors. The challenge was inspired by Richard Louv’s book, “Vitamin N: The Essential Guide to a Nature-Rich Life.” In it, you’ll find 500 fun, practical ideas to help you design a challenge that fits your lifestyle and schedule — or you can share your own ideas to inspire others. |
 | Description: Kids have always known how to play, and for most of history, they didn’t need playgrounds to do it. Today, we have prescribed them to parks that exclude most of their senses and mostly serve physical gross motor play. This modern approach is a mismatch to the way kids have always connected to nature, found objects, and played across larger areas — and with each other. The goal is to return to free play through a nature-based approach: to un-structure play environments and return to sensory-rich settings without continuing to spend on multi-million dollar structures that do not consider the many other types of play. Authored by Mark Davidson, Shihomi Kuriyagawa, and Emily Urquhart. |
 | Description: How can we best equip the next generation with an understanding of climate science and the motivation and practical skills needed to create healthy, thriving communities? K–12 climate education is essential to providing students with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills they need to address the impacts of climate change, now and in the future. Featuring success stories and lessons learned in state-level climate education policy efforts, this panel highlighted three different approaches to promote climate literacy: weaving climate education curriculum across standards and subject matter, providing professional development in climate education to teachers, and establishing Offices of Climate Education in state agencies and/or hiring dedicated personnel to address implementation. Dr. Roni Jones, Ten Strands Director of Curriculum, is one of the featured panelists. |
 | Description: Poet and nature writer Aimee Nezhukumatathil joins The World We Want host Gerry Ellis to talk about curiosity, observation, poetry, and the quiet heart of environmental education. This conversation explores how noticing the natural world—naming birds, listening at night, and staying curious—can shape how we learn, teach, and care for the environment. Aimee’s work explores the connections between poetry, science, nature, and memory, and how naming plants, animals, and landscapes helps us build a deeper connection to the places where we live. |
  | Description: ROOT Hub works to establish movement infrastructure to accelerate and expand movement-wide federal advocacy to secure the benefits of environmental learning and equitable access to the outdoors as a human right for all young people — especially for youth and children of color. Root Hub strengthens the field through coordinated action and alignment at the national level. By fostering connectivity, coordination, field engagement, and shared advocacy, Root Hub seeks to strengthen infrastructure and build on existing efforts to advance federal-level advocacy and strengthen and grow the movement across the field. Justice Outside was selected as the interim host organization for Root Hub for an 18-month transition period. |
| Inside the Outdoors is a unique and hands-on environmental education program serving over 120,000 participants per school year. Its mission is to empower students, teachers, parents and the community to explore natural areas and expand their knowledge, understanding, and stewardship of the environment through their Field Trips, Traveling Scientist, and Community programs. |  |
| The curriculum created for their programs supports current California academic standards and allows students to interact with these concepts in a real world setting. Inside the Outdoors has been a leader in hands-on science and social science programs since 1974, is administered by the Orange County Department of Education, and is a self-supporting program. |
| Inside the Outdoors offers programs for students of all ages that Nurture a Natural Curiosity. Their Preschool/TK programs provide a hands-on opportunity for students in preschool to develop an awareness and appreciation of the sciences through the exploration of the animal kingdom. In addition, the program fosters a commitment to the protection and understanding of the environment and community. |  |
 | The Traveling Scientist programs are designed for each grade level, Kindergarten through high school. For example, students in the 2nd grade study habitats while students in the 5th grade study food webs. Middle school students may study sensory structures in animals, investigate microorganisms in wastewater, or the impacts of human land uses on watersheds. High school students may study renewable energy or sea level rise |
| Inside the Outdoors also offers Traveling Scientist programs for the Expanded Learning Opportunity Program such as Amazing Animals, Renewable Energy, and Rethink Resources. In addition to the Traveling Scientist Program, students may also participate in Field Trips at various locations around Orange County including Shipley Nature Center, Wild Wetlands, Crystal Cove, or Irvine Regional Park. All of their programs are designed to be hands-on and provide an opportunity to engage with the natural world. |
| With the school year coming to a close, Inside the Outdoors is preparing for Summer Day Camp 2026 at Shipley Nature Center. Children experience unique activities that incorporate science, fun, learning, and being outdoors. Summer Day Camp is geared toward campers age 6 to 12 years old, with leadership and camp opportunities for campers age 13-17. Each week of summer camp will have themed daily activities that are science/nature based that also include a daily nature journal prompt and a take-home craft. |  |
 | Inside the Outdoors also designed some Community Programs and Virtual Programs to meet the wide range of needs of the community. For more information about Inside the Outdoors programs, call 714-708-3885 or email insidetheoutdoors@ocde.us. |
 | Dates: June 3, 2026 Location: Virtual Description: We invite you to our next virtual statewide gathering which is a great opportunity to connect, share updates, and collaborate with environmental education leaders across California. Visit the CAELI website for more information. Register HERE. |
| Date: June 9, 2026 Location: Virtual Description: Join this FREE virtual inspiring and practical workshop to discuss how ‘Renewal’ can guide K–12 educators in bringing Indigenous voices and the philosophy, principles, and practices of Indigenous land-based education into their teaching and community. Workshop attendees will learn how to respectfully renew their own relationships with land directly, engage students with the land – no matter where they are located and guide students in learning through observation, listening, and discussion. Through critical engagement with diverse written and visual works created by Indigenous leaders, land defenders, scholars, and Knowledge Keepers, experienced educators Christine M’Lot and Katya Adamov Ferguson will guide readers in connecting with Indigenous perspectives on land and water. Click HERE for more information or to register. Offered by The Outdoor Learning School & Store and Partners. |
 | Dates: June 10-14, 2026 Location: Events across the state Description: The fifth annual California State Parks Week is presented by CA State Parks, CA State Parks Foundation, Parks CA, and Save the Redwoods League. There are numerous free events happening across the state. From outdoor adventures to cultural celebrations and hands-on activities, there are many ways to connect with your parks. Plus, calling all TK–12 student artists! They are again holding the California State Parks Week poster contest, now expanded to include transitional kindergarten. To learn more and submit your artwork, visit the website. |
  | Date: June 14-July 25, 2026 Locations: El Dorado, Tuolumne, Humboldt, and Shasta Counties Description: FIT offers immersive in-woods professional learning experiences designed for both formal and non formal educators. At each week-long session FIT’s team of credentialed instructors and local experts weave environmental education with unique forestry field experiences to explore California’s forest resources and expand your teaching practice! Registration is all-inclusive, covering on-site accommodations, meals and resources; you just have to get there! Whether you’re looking to broaden your content knowledge, explore new environmental education strategies, or connect with like-minded educators, FIT provides the perfect setting — outdoors, in the forest, with other inquiring minds! FIT welcomes all active California educators. For more information and registration, click HERE. |
 | Date: June 16, 2026 Location: Los Angeles, CA Description: The Healing Power of Nature is a professional development conference where educators can learn healing pathways for themselves and their students using Southern California’s remarkable natural and cultural landscapes. Hosted by the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, this unique gathering centers teachers as the learners as they explore the interconnections between science, art, mindfulness, and social-emotional learning. Through hands-on workshops, outdoor experiences, and interdisciplinary sessions, educators will discuss natural disaster recovery and social competency issues while developing supportive relationships with their peers across institutions and disciplines. For more information, click HERE |
 | Date: June 24-26, 2026 Location: San Antonio, TX and online Description: The 2026 Natural Start Alliance Nature-Based Early Learning Conference, held in San Antonio and online, brings together educators, researchers, and leaders to explore innovative, equitable approaches to nature-based education. Centered on the theme Imagine If, the event features in-person and online sessions focused on sustainability, justice, advocacy, and expanding nature-based learning for all children. Click HERE for more information or to register. |
 | Date: July 9-10, 2026 Location: Santa Cruz, CA Description: Learn to use a garden to breathe life into standards-based lessons, promote ecological literacy, encourage a love of nourishing foods, and support students’ social development. Using Life Lab’s The Growing Classroom activity guide for grades K-6, participants in this hands-on workshop experience tried-and-true garden-based lessons linked to Common Core Language Arts and Math and Next Generation Science Standards; practice basic gardening techniques; and develop management strategies for a school garden program. Graduate education units available. Click HERE to register and to learn more. |
 | Description: National Geographic Explorer Bertie Gregory explores the extraordinary lives of bees, which are among the planet’s most important animals. Over three years, special cameras opened a rare window into a single hive, revealing its hidden world. With more than 20,000 bee species pollinating one-third of the world’s food, this series uncovers their astonishing architecture and intelligence, unlocking their secrets. Click HERE to watch some fascinating footage in these two episodes. |
 | Description: Nature as Healer is a strategy for advancing children’s access to nature’s benefits, centering the ways in which time in nature supports mental health, recovery from trauma and overall well-being for children, families and communities. With children’s mental health in crisis, nature’s role in supporting young people’s well-being is more important than ever. Nature as Healer is our answer to this crisis. Click HERE to view some additional resources provided by the Children & Nature Network. |
 | Description: How can electric vehicles be used most effectively to combat climate change? How can we improve the impact of agriculture on people and our planet? Can we restore native ecosystems while mitigating the impacts of the climate crisis? Strategic Energy Innovation’s (SEI) new Climate Solutions Toolkit engages students in asking questions like these as they wrestle with how best to solve one of our planet’s most pressing problems: the threat of changing weather patterns across the globe. While many resources teach students why climate change is happening and its consequences, few encourage them to think critically about the many ways we have to solve this problem, providing both lively engagement and necessary inspiration to take action. This toolkit includes an educator guide, detailed case studies, a curated list of additional climate solutions, and a glossary for educators. Together, these resources provide an inquiry-based framework for facilitating students’ evaluation of a variety of climate solutions and key examples of how educators can use this framework to facilitate discussions about regenerative agriculture, ecosystem restoration, electric vehicles, and more. Request the toolkit HERE. |
 | Description: Many schools and districts plan to or already use outdoor learning spaces when the weather is warm. As temperatures rise it is important to ensure that students and teachers are comfortable and protected from direct sun and excess heat. Hydration is key, along with avoiding surfaces that intensify heat, finding shade and breezes, and being sure everyone has the right clothing and gear for the weather. Check out these helpful tips and many more resources on the National Outdoor Learning Library. |
 | Description: When we were young, it was easy to think that we’d have to wait until we’re older to make a difference since most of our role models were adults. As young environmental activist Ta’Kaiya Blaney said, “I always wanted to make a difference, but it was always along the lines of…when I grow up. It’s sad that it has to be this way but I realize I don’t have time to grow up before I want to make a change.” It’s true – young students don’t need to wait until they’re older to make a difference. They can make real change now. Sometimes they just need to know it’s possible. Project Learning Tree shares 13 inspiring stories that show what’s possible when young environmentalists take action. Get inspired HERE. |
 | Description: This article, published in the Sierra Club magazine, was written by Jackie Ostfeld, Director of the Sierra Club’s Outdoors for All campaign. She talks about the influence of addictive digital technologies on children and how they are taking a toll on youth mental health. Jackie shares Sierra Club’s efforts to make sure kids can safely access nature wherever they live. Click HERE to read the article. |
| The mission of the San Francisco Zoo & Gardens is to connect people with wildlife, inspire caring for nature and advance conservation action. The San Francisco Zoo is designed with the underlying belief that nature-focused interaction leads to conservation action. Learning about animals here inspires visitors to care for all wildlife. |  |
| Nestled against the Pacific Ocean, the San Francisco Zoo is an urban oasis. It is home to over 2,000 exotic, endangered and rescued animals representing more than 250 species and lovely peaceful gardens full of native and foreign plants and is open 365 days a year |
| The majestic Leanne Roberts African Region and the Valentine Family Savanna offer a multi-species landscape with giraffes, zebras, kudu, ostriches, storks, and more. At Hearst Grizzly Gulch, visitors can get nose-to-nose with rescued grizzly sisters Kachina and Kiona. Lemurs leap through the Lipman Family Lemur Forest, the largest outdoor lemur habitat in the country. Penguin Island is home to the largest colony of Magellanic penguins outside of the wild. The Zoo’s troop of gorillas lives in the lush Jones Family Gorilla Preserve. Farm animals for feeding and petting can be found in the popular Fisher Family Children’s Zoo. The historic 1921 Dentzel Carousel and the 1904 miniature Little Puffer steam train are treasured by generations of visitors. And the reimagined Elinor Friend Playground offers accessible playtime for all ages. The SF Zoo offers an engaging experience for its guests, including fun rides, educational programs and exciting events throughout the year. The SF Zoo is proud to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). |  |
| The evolution of the San Francisco Zoo into what we know today has been one of steady progress towards a primary mission of conservation. The San Francisco Zoological Society’s highest priorities are providing quality animal care, advancing wildlife conservation, and educating visitors about nature by connecting them with animals. They hope to inspire their guests to connect with wildlife by creating naturalistic new habitats, renovating older exhibits, providing animals with a vast array of stimuli and behavioral enrichment opportunities, and presenting unique opportunities through which to experience nature. |
 | SF Zoo offers a variety of educational programs for different age groups and levels. School field trips are offered between the months of September through May, with classroom teachers and chaperones in attendance. SFUSD school field trips are free and with discounted rates available for non-SFUSD schools. The Zoo website has fun, science-based activities that can be used as pre-visit lessons to build student excitement prior to the field trip. |
| With programs like Little Learners and Zoo Camp, there’s so much for your little one to learn! Zoo Camp is a week-long program (M-F) that focuses on conservation, animal activism and hands-on art and science. Camp families can sign up for 1 or 2 weeks of animal/habitat exploration and wildlife fun with the team at SF Zoo and Gardens! |  |
| Teacher Resources: Whether you need to prepare your students for a Zoo field trip or need an activity for your homeschooler, they have you covered. Designed to enhance lessons in biology, zoology, and ecology, these resources will help connect your learners to wildlife. The Zoo has prepared Exhibit Exploration Guides to offer suggestions on how to interpret various life science topics while viewing the exhibit. Find out how you can talk about habitats, adaptations, and animal behavior while enjoying the sights and sounds of animals in the exhibits. They also offer Zoo Vocabulary, Zoo Field Trip FAQs, and supplemental resources such as books and websites to explore. |
| The San Francisco Zoo also offers many volunteer opportunities for youth and adults. The Animal Rescue & Conservation Center (ARC) is a training ground for future ecologists, conservationists, biologists, zoologists, and animal care staff through its teen volunteer programs. The animal ambassadors play a key role in connecting their guests with wildlife. Youth ages 12-14 can become a Nature Trail Volunteer helping educate visitors. Youth ages 15-17 can become ARC Junior Zoologists and assist with animal husbandry or become Leadership Fellows helping with Zoo Camp and teaching younger children. |
 | Adults can volunteer to become Docents. Docents support the Zoo’s mission by engaging guests in conservation education through informative talks, biofact presentations, and sharing the Zoo’s conservation initiatives while out at our exhibits. Speaking about the animals and their wild counterparts inspires their guests to celebrate their animal ambassadors, protect wildlife in their natural habitats, and engage in independent conservation action. Adult animal care volunteers offer support in the ARC, Children’s Zoo, or the Insect Zoo. The opportunities to get involved are numerous. |
| If you haven’t visited the San Francisco Zoo lately, or perhaps you’ve never visited, then you might consider an upcoming trip. Enjoy all the wonders the zoo offers! |
 | Dates: May 7, 2026 Location: Virtual Description: This lecture series, hosted by Green Schoolyards America, discusses emerging topics and provides guidance for creating and stewarding high-quality green schoolyards and schoolyard forests. Sessions feature presentations by subject-area experts including Green Schoolyards America’s staff, along with time for audience Q&A. This month, the presentation is Healthy Soils for Healthy School Trees. Register HERE. |
 | Date: May 8, 2026 Location: Virtual Description: CAELI invites district office staff from across California to join the District Environmental Literacy CoP—a statewide network for leaders, educators, and support staff working to advance environmental literacy and sustainability in schools.The CoP brings together professionals committed to integrating sustainability principles into district operations, instruction, and culture. Through collaboration, shared learning, and resource exchange, members work toward districtwide innovation and systems-level change. Register HERE. |
 | Dates: May 15, 2026 deadline to apply Location: San Francisco Bay and San Diego Description: Now enrolling for Fall 2026 — San Diego and San Francisco Bay Area Cohorts. The Schoolyard Forest Regional Leadership Institute is a two-year program that empowers school districts and County Offices of Education to move beyond piecemeal greening projects and address the systemic barriers that too often hamper these efforts. They help teams build the systems, policies, and plans necessary to scale green schoolyards with schoolyard forests across entire districts—equitably and sustainably.They encourage interested school district leadership teams to complete the interest form below by May 15, 2026 if they would like to be considered for a participation stipend. Click HERE to learn more. |
| Date: April 14, 2026 Location: Virtual Description: Explore how school gardens can blossom into joyful, accessible learning spaces that nurture literacy, numeracy, science, well-being, and environmental stewardship from Kindergarten through the elementary years. You’ll walk away with adaptable strategies for a wide range of climates and school contexts, plus renewed confidence, fresh inspiration, and ready-to-use ideas to bring your school garden to life. Register HERE (scroll down to bottom of page). |
| Date: May 19, 2026 Location: Virtual Description: The Community-Based Partner (CBP) virtual Community of Practice brings together program leaders and staff from environmental education organizations to engage in collaborative learning and build capacity. Join colleagues from across the state to share resources, explore best practices, and strengthen connections that enhance our organizations and increase our collective impact. This session will focus on Climate Education. Register HERE. |
 | Date: May 31, 2026 deadline to apply Location: Virtual Description: The California Youth Climate Policy (CYCP) Leadership Program is open to students entering 9th through 12th grade in the 2026–27 school year who are ready to grow as leaders, build community, and take meaningful action on climate issues in their schools and beyond. CYCP is grounded in equity-driven values, and we strongly encourage applications from youth whose identities and perspectives have been historically underrepresented in environmental and climate spaces. CYCP is supported by program partners Ten Strands, Undaunted K12, and the Sierra Club San Francisco Bay Chapter. Students: Click HERE to apply for Cohort 4 starting this summer. |
 | Date: May 31, 2026 deadline to apply Location: Virtual Description: The Taiwan Ocean Conservation Administration and GEEP invite young people (15–30 years old) from around the world to propose an innovative solution to tackle marine issues, provide healthy habitats for marine life, protect human health, and support people of all ages to be engaged stewards to support marine environments. They are looking for solutions that are informed by research, feasible and measurable, innovative, and address one of this year’s key topics using environmental education. Read more about the challenge and tips for submitting your proposal HERE. |
| Date: June 14-July 25, 2026 Locations: El Dorado, Tuolumne, Humboldt, and Shasta Counties Description: FIT offers immersive in-woods professional learning experiences designed for both formal and non formal educators. At each week-long session FIT’s team of credentialed instructors and local experts weave environmental education with unique forestry field experiences to explore California’s forest resources and expand your teaching practice! Registration is all-inclusive, covering on-site accommodations, meals and resources; you just have to get there! Whether you’re looking to broaden your content knowledge, explore new environmental education strategies, or connect with like-minded educators, FIT provides the perfect setting — outdoors, in the forest, with other inquiring minds! FIT welcomes all active California educators. For more information and registration, click HERE. |
 | Description: The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) strives to help Californians of all ages learn about water, including where it comes from, how we use it, and how to conserve it. They provide a variety of resources to K-12 teachers, parents, scout leaders, and other non-formal educators, to encourage water education in and out of the classroom. Their free supplementary materials can be used to help develop lessons about California’s diverse water resources. |
 | Description: Why is the Central Valley sinking, and what can we do about it? Students investigate the sinking of California’s Central Valley, a phenomenon otherwise known as land subsidence. Using the phenomenon as an anchoring point, students explore California’s water crisis and its intersection with historical colonialism, groundwater mechanics, and environmental justice through an engaging, character-driven narrative. Students explore the Central Valley’s transformation from a water-rich ecosystem under Indigenous stewardship to its current state, shaped by colonization, industrial agriculture, and irrigation networks. Students investigate how aquifers work, how excessive pumping and climate change deplete groundwater, and how this impacts ecosystems and frontline communities. Students also examine solutions, such as managed aquifer recharge, water conservation, and climate action. To review this unit, click HERE. |
 | Description: California Project WET is a program of the Water Education Foundation that works with partners throughout the state to organize professional development workshops for formal and non-formal K-12 educators. Project WET’s educator guides feature field-tested activities for TK-12 students. Educators’ guides are perfect for TK-12 teachers, community educators, government agencies, NGOs, museum, aquarium, zoo, and National Park Service staff, and university professors teaching future preK-12 teachers. Project WET’s series of student activity booklets includes more than 60 titles. Written and illustrated for children ages 8-12, the colorful booklets engage students in hands-on learning about water science through creative investigations, demonstrations, experiments, educational games and stories. Browse their guides HERE. Project WET also offers virtual training and downloadable products. |
 | Description: PORTS stands for Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students. The PORTS program brings California State Parks into your classroom, digitally. From over 55 parks in all corners of the state, they have free resources for you! Nature, Science, History, Culture. PORTS offers numerous programs that have a water emphasis, from Eelgrass Habitat in the San Diego Bay, to Hydroelectricity at the Folsom House, and Salmon in the Trees. There are many programs to choose from serving multiple grades. Click HERE to explore their resources. |
 | Description: Educators: have you been wanting to brush up on your knowledge of California’s coast and ocean and the impacts of a changing climate? The California’s 2026 Coast and Ocean Assessment uses science to explore 14 key indicators of California’s coast and ocean. Developed through a public process and guided by more than 120 scientists, these indicators reveal both the threats facing our coast and ocean and the actions needed to protect people and ecosystems. This Report tells a story of both pressure and progress: while climate impacts are threatening wildlife, livelihoods, and coastal access, investments in sustainable solutions are improving the health and resilience of coastal and marine ecosystems and the people who rely on them. |
 | Description: The Water Science School likes to make life easier for teachers. They offer teacher guides with lesson plans and students worksheets complete with answers that can aid teachers in helping their students learn about water. The teacher guide for Our Water, Our Lives: California (5th grade) includes background information, lesson plans, and examples of student answers for four lessons about water resources in California. |
| Joshua Tree National Park was elevated to national park status in 1994 as a part of the Desert Protection Bill, having been designated the Joshua Tree National Monument since 1936. The bill added 234,000 acres which now stands at 792,623 acres, of which 591,624 is designated wilderness. Joshua Tree NP protects the unique assembly of natural resources brought together by the junction of three of California’s ecosystems: the Colorado Desert, the Mojave Desert, and the Little San Bernardino Mountains. The plant and animal diversity are unique along with some very interesting geologic features. Joshua Tree NP provides the perfect outdoor setting to enhance classroom-based learning. You can visit on your own or have a ranger join you for an outdoor education program. All ranger-led education programs are curriculum-based (California State Education Standards, NGSS) and free of charge. |
| Field Trips: The Preschool and Kindergarten program is Who Lives in a National Park and explores the plants and animals who make the desert home. Early Elementary programs include Junior GeoKids and Exploring a Desert Habitat while the Upper Elementary programs include Geokids and Keys to the Past. Programs are also available for Middle and High School students and include Tune In to Tracking, Joshua Tree Monitoring, and Issues in Park Management. This brief video gives students tips on How to Prepare for Your Field Trip. |  |
 | Virtual Field Trips: Educators anywhere can schedule a virtual field trip lasting 30-45 minutes. Teachers can choose from Plants and Animals, Draw JT, Geology of JT – Rocks and Minerals or Weathering and Erosion. These are offered free of charge and must be requested in advance. Virtual field trips support NGSS and are offered for all grades Preschool and Kindergarten through high school. |
| Guest Speakers: A ranger can visit your classroom to lead students activities relating their study of the sciences to Joshua Tree National Park! There are topics for all grade levels. Teachers should coordinate with each other to serve at least three classrooms during the ranger’s visit. |  |
 | Joshua Tree NP provides curriculum resources and a number of lesson plans and activities for educators to use. The Joshua Tree NP staff also offers professional development workshops for teachers through the Desert Institute, the educational branch of the Joshua Tree NP Association. They offer a variety of field courses in natural science, cultural history, recreation, and the arts. Programs are taught by experienced instructors. Please see the Desert Institute’s website for their current schedule of classes. |
| The Joshua Tree NP offers children the opportunity to become a Junior Ranger. “Explore, Learn, Protect!” The Junior Ranger motto is recited by children around the country—each taking an oath of their own to protect parks, continue to learn about parks, and share their own ranger story with friends and family. Take a few minutes to learn more about the Joshua Tree National Park and all the services and experiences it offers. Spring is an amazing time to visit the desert! |  |
