To truly understand me and Expeditions in Education, I feel that I must share more about myself...
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​Knowing your story is one thing, but telling your story is quite another. I am writing my story as I approach the end of my 50s. It's amazing how much your mind can recall from days gone by, but yet you can't remember your keys. I may not have a story that would make the bestseller's list, but I am proud of where I came from and where I am going. I'm not sure how I'll organize the events of my life, for now they are in chapters, but I know that I want to record them in writing for my children and grandchildren. It has taken me three years to gather my thoughts and now I am ready to share them. This is chapter one. It's unfinished, but putting it out there should make me accountable for finishing it. SO without further ado- I give you....


Chapter 1: A Pastor's Daughter's Melody
"In every sunrise, there lies a promise of a new beginning, an opportunity to paint the canvas of life with vibrant strokes of hope and possibility."


Though born in Greensboro, NC, I spent the first three years of my life in the peaceful town of Mount Airy. Here, church spires reached high into the sky like outstretched hands, and a sense of togetherness flowed as gently as a calm river. It was within this serene setting that I came into this world. My parents, Jake and Carolyn, were the heart of our community. My father served as the pastor of our church, while my mother was a beloved elementary school teacher. Their dream had always been to raise a child surrounded by the warm embrace of our faith, and finally, that dream had come true.


My name was Dacia, to be precise, Dacia Joyce. I had wide, curious eyes that sparkled with mischief, and a captivating smile that could charm anyone. But there was something unique about my early years—I didn't have hair until I was about two years old. To remedy this, my mother lovingly taped a bow onto my head, creating a playful and endearing image that would become a cherished memory.


The name "Dacia" held special significance. My parents named me after a close college friend of theirs, a testament to their enduring friendship. Additionally, it was a nod to the "Land of Dacia," a historical region mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing strength and resilience—qualities that my parents hoped I would carry with me throughout life.


With my bow-adorned head and a pair of thick glasses perched on my nose to correct a lazy eye, I cherished life. From a young age, I found solace in the church led by my father. The ancient oak pews stretched out before me, seemingly infinite. I would claim my spot in the front row, my heart in sync with the melodies of the organist. When the music soared into lively hymns, I couldn't resist the urge to jump to my feet and dance with unrestrained delight, twirling and pirouetting in my own world of faith and music. This is where I discovered my love for music and places of faith.


Yet, there was one thing that could furrow my brow and bring a pout to my lips—the elderly women of the church who, no matter how many times they were corrected, continued to mispronounce my name. "Dasher!" they would exclaim, thinking it was an affectionate nickname. To me, it felt like a missed note in a beautiful symphony. "It's Dacia," I would gently correct them, my voice soft yet unwavering, reflecting my determination.


Another quirk of my upbringing was my early involvement in the church's youth group. My parents weren't just members of the congregation; they were leaders in the church community. So, it seemed only natural for me to join the youth group, even though I was noticeably younger than my peers. I would sit attentively, absorbing the wisdom shared by my elders, my eyes shining with an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a burning desire to make a difference in the world.


When at home, I found comfort within the cozy confines of my bedroom, adorned with an assortment of stuffed animals. My imagination knew no bounds. Countless hours were spent teaching my plush companions their ABCs, scribbling letters on the walls with crayons, and confiding in them about my dreams. Little did I know that my stuffed animals would soon be replaced by sisters, and my make-believe classroom would expand.


As I grew older, I witnessed my parents' dedication to their church and the wider community. Their selflessness became a wellspring of inspiration for me, urging me to consider becoming a catalyst for change in the world. In my eyes, the world unfurled like a vast canvas, waiting for me to add my unique brushstrokes.


So, the first chapter of my life was written in the embrace of a nurturing church and to the harmonious melodies that echoed in my heart. It was a chapter infused with faith, music, and an unyielding determination to leave a lasting mark on the world. Little did I know that my journey had only just begun, and that the story of Dacia Joyce was destined to be a beautiful and inspirational symphony, heard by all those willing to listen. (Editor's note: I was only three years old, so I can brag, right?)

​In the past few years, the pandemic has increasingly pushed us towards "online" interactions. For many, this shift was challenging as they missed the opportunity to be extroverted, struggling to connect through the screen. They cherished face-to-face interactions and found the digital alternative unsatisfying. Conversely, others viewed this as a perfect opportunity to conceal their imperfections, presenting themselves impressively from the waist up while comfortably wearing sweatpants for school, business meetings, and conferences.

At Expeditions in Education, this shift spurred us to think creatively. We pondered ways to connect students and educators from across the country to our work with national parks. Our aim was to replicate the engagement of face-to-face interactions within the confines of a 12-17 inch screen. Initially, one of our most common phrases was, "You are muted." Repeated so frequently, it became second nature. However, we soon realized that this phrase signified more than just a technical issue on a Zoom call; it was a call to action.

As educators, we often inundate our students with information, inadvertently muting their responses due to strict deadlines and the necessity of administering tests every few weeks to gauge their knowledge. This realization led us to question: Do we genuinely allow our students time to "unmute"? We believe that authentic engagement occurs when students are given daily opportunities to solve real-world problems. These problems don't need to be life-altering, but they should be genuine. When students understand that their work is valued and considered authentic, they tend to invest more effort. They "unmute" themselves and demonstrate their capabilities.

Next time you're on a virtual call and need to remind a participant that they are muted, consider the deeper implications of this statement. If they do unmute, take the time to listen, really listen.

​January is invariably a hectic month for us, filled with the balancing act of managing STEAM in the PARK applications, orchestrating camp plans, and coordinating our travel schedule. Our evenings are consistently buzzing with a flurry of emails, texts, and phone calls, all focused on ensuring that everything is set for the big reveal of our new campers on February 1st. Amidst this whirlwind of activities last night, I stumbled upon an old Facebook post of mine. Inspired by its message, I decided to republish it on our blog as a gentle reminder to myself to take a moment, breathe, and truly savor the journey.

Ever thought about the power of being 'unbothered'? It's about not letting long lines, delayed flights, or everyday distractions disrupt our peace. When you are feeling overwhelmed by not meeting others' expectations, focusing on what is good and true, and then letting it go. Understanding that it is more about grace and understanding, because we know how much we need it too

But here's where it gets even better: While we embrace this serene, unbothered attitude towards the small stuff, we also awaken a fiery passion for what truly matters. Equality, kindness, respect, and justice – these are the things that deserve our full attention and energy.

To put it in the words of Desmond Tutu: "Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world." This quote reminds us that our unbothered nature in daily life should not dampen our spirit to fight for the greater good. It's about striking that perfect balance – being calm and composed where it's beneficial, and fiercely passionate and engaged in the face of injustice and inequality.

So, let's commit to this journey together. Let's live unbothered by life's little dramas, but deeply engaged and bothered by the big issues that impact our world. Because when we do, we make a real difference.

#BalanceInLife #PassionateForJustice #UnbotheredYetEngaged #MakeADifference

Greetings, everyone! Within me burns an undeniable passion, one that, if given the chance to present a TedTalk, would be the basis of my message. It began when several educators reached out to me sharing that their districts wouldn't provide funding for their professional learning opportunities this year. 

Let's begin with a question posed by the renowned poet Mary Oliver: "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" The year 2020 brought us all to a standstill with a global pandemic, prompting my husband and me to reflect on this very question. That soul-searching led to the birth of "Expeditions in Education," a mission with a simple yet profound goal: to connect students, educators, and the United Nations Global Goals with the transformative power of nature. We firmly believe in nature's ability to heal and inspire, even in these challenging times. Where did we find our inspiration? In our favorite classrooms: the national parks!

​A few years down the road, our efforts have touched the lives of over 3.7 million individuals. Yes, you heard that right. Our initial mission to change the world ended up changing us, revealing our true purpose, passion, and life's mission. Bringing students and teachers into nature makes them part of a larger narrative, instilling a deep connection to the environment and a sense of responsibility for our planet's future.

One of our most shining achievements is "STEAM in the PARK," an event that embodies our mission to bring educators from across the nation to national parks, fostering connection, collaboration, and creative inspiration. However, we now face a significant challenge: educators are finding it hard to secure funding for our "STEAM in the PARK" adventures. The struggle for funding grows more daunting each day. Even reputable platforms like Donors Choose have closed their doors to professional development applications for now, and many school districts are cutting off access to these invaluable resources. This raises a critical question: Why do we continue to demand more from educators while providing them with less and less support?

Our plea goes beyond securing funds for "STEAM in the PARK"; it encompasses acknowledging the significance of all valuable professional development opportunities. We have an unwavering belief in our mission, and we go to great lengths to aid applicants in securing funding for our programs. It is our responsibility to stand by educators, the individuals who are shaping our future, and facilitate their journey. While my husband and I are fully committed to creating these opportunities for educators, we require support in securing the necessary funding to make it happen.  We must explore avenues to inspire school districts to back their educators, engage communities in assisting educators with professional learning opportunities, and encourage corporate America to contribute, leveraging their capacity to make a difference.

In today's noisy world, the stories that truly matter often go unheard. Our newsfeeds are filled with politics and disputes, drowning out the stories that need to be heard. But rest assured, we hear them. We don't just listen; we actively respond to our educators through emails, texts, messages, Zoom meetings, phone calls, and sometimes, walking through their school door, and meeting them in nature. Their struggles resonate deeply with us. Our connections are profound and enduring, driven by an unwavering passion to make a real difference.

Now is the time to amplify our voices above the noise. I implore each of you with a voice to support your schools, find ways to make educators feel valued, and collaborate with local districts to secure meaningful professional development opportunities. Let educators say, "Wow, they truly care about me."

In conclusion, our mission at Expeditions in Education is crystal clear: we want every student to "BE GOOD HUMANS," ensure that every educator "FEELS VALUED," and help goodness shine through the noise. It's time to revolutionize education and make a genuine impact on those who mold our future. Thank you for being here, and let's work together to create a brighter, more inspired world for our children and educators.

​Thanks for coming to my online TedTalk!

🌟 Get ready for a wild ride with Expeditions in Education in 2024! 🎢 We're excited to reveal our incredible work adventures that will make this year absolutely unforgettable. Without further ado, let's begin our adventure!! 🚀😄 

🌸 Winter and Spring Escapades: Crossing America 🌸
Our season is off to an exhilarating start with 7 more Crossing America events in schools. We're hitting the road to explore fantastic destinations like the picturesque landscapes of North Carolina (twice!), the Lone Star State of Texas (twice!), the heartland of Oklahoma, the sun-soaked shores of California, and the breathtaking beauty of Oregon. Each stop promises a unique adventure, and we can't wait to take you along!

🔥 Ignite Your Passion: "Don't Lose Your Fire" Retreats 🔥
But it's not just about road trips; we're also igniting the flames of your adventurous spirit with our "Don't Lose Your Fire" retreats. These retreats are all about reconnecting with your inner explorer, and we'll be doing just that at the historic San Juan National Historical Site, the scenic Delaware Water Gap, and the inspiring Jimmy Carter National Historic Park. Get ready to rediscover your love for adventure and learning in these incredible settings. These events are open to all STEAM in the PARK alumni. (All spots are filled for these events)

🎥 Virtual Expeditions: LiveStreams 🎥
Join us for an exciting lineup of virtual adventures in February, March, and April! We're bringing the beauty and wonder of national parks straight to your screen with our LiveStreams. In February, Voyageurs National Park invites you to experience the magic of winter on the lake with ice fishing and breathtaking views of the dark skies. It's an opportunity to witness the serene beauty of this park like never before. March takes us to Olympic National Park, where we'll be exploring the fascinating tide pools at Ruby Beach. Dive into the world of marine life and coastal wonders as we venture into the heart of this unique park. April brings an astronomical treat as we go LiveStream all day during the Solar Eclipse at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Watch as the skies put on a celestial show, right from the comfort of your classroom.

🌳 The Pullman Express: Experience the Parks 🚂
​We are thrilled to announce that we will be continuing our amazing partnership with Pullman National Historical Park in March. Join us as we bring the magic of history to life in 5 schools, with an exciting LiveStream event, and an unforgettable Educator Experience. 🎉 Our team absolutely loves collaborating with the incredible staff at Pullman. 🤝 Together, we are making a difference in education and inspiring young minds. But that's not all… We're already on the lookout for another exceptional park to join forces with in 2023-2024! 🌟 

🌞 A Summer of Learning and Fun: STEAM in the PARK Camps 🌞
Our summer is jam-packed with 12 STEAM in the PARK camps. These hands-on experiences will take place in stunning locations like New River, Grand Teton, Assateague Island, Mount Rainier, Redwood, Acadia (twice!), Bryce Canyon, Voyageurs, Rocky Mountain, Mammoth Cave, and the iconic National Mall. It's the perfect blend of education and adventure that'll leave you thirsty for knowledge and exploration. Applications are open NOW.

🍂 Fall Adventures: More Crossing America Events 🍂
As the leaves change colors, our adventures continue. In the fall, we're hitting schools for 7 more Crossing America Events, bringing the spirit of exploration right to students in Florida, Utah, Colorado, Minnesota, and Idaho. It's a fantastic fusion of learning and adventure that's sure to be a blast for all involved!

🏞️ New Horizons: Grand Canyon and Glacier Bay LiveStreams 🏞️
But hold on to your hats because there's more! We're crossing our fingers for some thrilling new LiveStreams at the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon and the pristine beauty of Glacier Bay. Keep your eyes peeled for updates on these exciting virtual adventures!

🌊 Coming Soon: The Great Lakes Odyssey 🌊
Get ready for something big – "The Great Lakes Odyssey." This 14-day tour of parks in the Great Lakes area is in the works and promises to be an unforgettable journey. We can't wait to reveal more details soon, so stay tuned and prepare to explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of this magnificent region.

🔥 Stay Tuned: "Don't Lose Your Fire" Retreats 🔥
Last but certainly not least, we've got two brand-new "Don't Lose Your Fire" retreats on the horizon. We're keeping the locations under wraps for now, but trust us, they're going to be inspiring.

As we embark on this incredible year of adventures, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all of you. You're an integral part of our expeditions, and we're genuinely thrilled to have you here. So, here's to a busy and thrilling 2024 with Expeditions in Education. Let's make memories that will last a lifetime! 🌟🌎🚀 #ExpeditionsInEducation #AdventureAwaits #LearningJourney #2024Adventures #StayTuned