Teachers

The Children’s Forest of Central Oregon has the goal of providing all children and youth in Central Oregon first hand connections with nature by providing meaningful, inspirational, and interdisciplinary education programs.  By partnering with school districts, the Children’s Forest of Central Oregon expands the reach of environmental education programs and provides resources for teachers that address barriers to outdoor learning.  Whether you are considering your first field experience or have been leading them for decades, we’re here to help.

Environmental Education Programs 

Our education partners offer 28 different programs for K-12 students in locations across Central Oregon.  All programs are aligned with education standards and provide meaningful ways for students to learn science concepts using the natural world as their classroom.  To view a complete list of environmental education programs by grade level, click here.

Field Trip Planning

Recognizing that teachers often face many barriers towards bringing classroom learning outdoors, the Children’s Forest of Central Oregon has developed a suite of resources, working to improve access for all students and add value to schools.  To read more about field trip planning resources, click here.

Professional Development

The studies show...

• Nature enhances academic achievement

  Studies show that students learn more when they participate in authentic, inquiry-based lessons in the natural environment.

• Better performance on standardized tests

  A study of 40 schools found that students within an environment-based context showed better performance on standardized tests, increased enthusiasm for learning, and reduced classroom management and discipline problems.

• Appeal to students with different learning styles

  Symptoms of ADD/ADHD are less severe in students during and after activities in greener settings.