Day 3:
​What a day at Friends of San Juan National Historic Site! With Rangers Kina, Joaquin, Jose, and Kassandra as our guides, we dove deep into the fortifications, history, and rich culture of this remarkable place. From the towering walls to the stories of resilience etched in every stone, we learned about the strength of the Puerto Rican people—a testament to their enduring spirit through storms and challenges. Excited to start creating content to share this incredible heritage with the world. And what a treat it was to be serenaded by the Washington Brass Quintet from DC! Huge thanks to the Friends of San Juan National Historic Site for making this unforgettable experience possible. Feeling grateful to work with national park sites across the country!
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​Day 5:
A heartfelt thank you to San Juan National Historic Site and the Friends of San Juan National Historic Site from educators across the country for the opportunity to collaborate on content creation at your park. 📚💡 We were able to create 30+ activities for the park to share. We are eagerly anticipating our next trip to this special place!

Who's next? Well we are heading to Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area on February 29-March 3 and Jimmy Carter National Historical Park on April 8-11.

Looking to book some new national park sites for next school year!

Sometimes it feels like the education of children is all about testing. Standardized exams, assessments, and quizzes dominate the educational landscape, leaving little room for authentic learning experiences. However, what if we shifted our focus from rote memorization to immersive real-world experiences? What if we prioritized fostering empathy, compassion, and a deep understanding of the world around us?

At the heart of education lies the fundamental goal of nurturing well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also compassionate and empathetic members of society. Yet, in our quest for high test scores and academic achievement, we often overlook the importance of holistic learning experiences.

Imagine a classroom where students aren't confined to the pages of a textbook but are instead immersed in the wonders of nature, history, science, and the arts. Picture students exploring national parks, conducting scientific experiments, writing poetry inspired by their surroundings, and engaging in meaningful discussions about pressing social issues.

This is the vision championed by educators who understand that true learning occurs not in isolation but in the context of real-world situations. By providing students with opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in authentic settings, we empower them to become critical thinkers, problem solvers, and compassionate individuals.

One such initiative leading the charge in this educational paradigm shift is Expeditions in Education. With a mission to provide all students with access to transformative learning experiences, Expeditions in Education offers a wealth of free resources and programs designed to engage and inspire learners of all ages.

Through a partnership with the National Park Foundation, Expeditions in Education connects students with the natural world, history, culture, and more. From virtual field trips to hands-on projects, these experiences not only enrich students' understanding of academic subjects but also foster a deep appreciation for the world around them.

In the words of educator and author John Dewey, "Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself." Indeed, meaningful learning goes beyond memorizing facts and figures; it instills in students a passion for exploration, discovery, and making a difference in the world.

Meaningful learning produces students who are passionate about leading meaningful lives. When students are given the opportunity to engage with the world around them, they develop empathy, compassion, and a sense of responsibility towards others. They become lifelong learners who are equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern world with wisdom and empathy.

As educators, parents, and community members, let us embrace the power of real-world experiences in education. Let us prioritize empathy, compassion, and holistic learning, knowing that these are the qualities that will truly prepare our students to lead fulfilling and purposeful lives.

In conclusion, let us heed the call to action and join the movement towards meaningful education. Together, we can empower the next generation to become compassionate, empathetic, and socially conscious leaders who will shape a brighter future for us all.

By Dacia Jones & Karisa Schwanekamp
Today, we're taking you on an exciting journey back to February 2022 when Expeditions in Education embarked on an educational odyssey at Guilford Elementary School in Plainfield, Indiana. Our first-ever "Crossing America" event took us to the heart of the Hoosier state, where we explored the fascinating world of science and national parks. This unforgettable day not only ignited a spark in the students' minds but also kick-started a district-wide adventure that's making waves to this day! Take a peek at the day here.

The Grand Gymnasium Gathering
We kicked off the day in the school's bustling gymnasium, where the entire school community gathered for a thrilling assembly. We were about to embark on a virtual journey across America, exploring the science behind seven national park sites, including the magnificent Indiana Dunes National Park. With awe-inspiring visuals and engaging presentations, we delved into the wonders of nature, biodiversity, and the ecosystems found within these national treasures. Indiana Dunes National Park, in particular, caught everyone's attention. Spanning 15,000 acres, it's a haven for adventure seekers, boasting 1,100 flowering plants, 350 species of birds, 50 miles of trails, and 15 miles of pristine Great Lake shoreline.

A Zoom Encounter with Ranger Kip
As our assembly came to a close, a surprise awaited the eager students. Through the magic of technology, we connected with none other than Ranger Kip, a real-life guardian of Indiana Dunes National Park! Live via Zoom, Ranger Kip shared his passion for preserving this natural wonder with the young minds in Plainfield. In a moment of excitement, Ranger Kip swore the entire school into the Junior Ranger program as a token of appreciation for their hard work and curiosity. The cheers and smiles on the students' faces were simply priceless!
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Engineering Design Challenge: Creating the Bacteria Meter
Following the assembly, it was time for hands-on learning, as we headed over to the fourth-grade classroom. Here, we embarked on a fascinating mission – tackling the Engineering Design Challenge crafted by Expeditions in Education.
The challenge? Design a bacteria meter that could be seamlessly embedded into swimwear. This high-tech meter would serve as a guardian angel for swimmers, alerting them when bacteria levels in the water became unsafe, ensuring their safety and well-being.
Indiana Dunes National Park: A Place of Adventure and Awareness

While Indiana Dunes National Park is undoubtedly a place of adventure and natural beauty, it also faces challenges. One such challenge is the occasional presence of high bacteria levels in the water, particularly after heavy rainfall. These elevated levels can pose a threat to swimmers' health. The solutions dreamed up by the fourth graders and Expeditions in Education were nothing short of ingenious. By creating a bacteria meter embedded in swimwear, they harnessed science and technology to protect beachgoers. When bacteria levels soared, the meter would send out an alert, prompting swimmers to exit the water and avoid potential health risks.

The Ripple Effect: Expanding Beyond Guilford Elementary
Now, fast forward to 2024, and the impact of our day at Guilford Elementary has rippled far beyond the school's walls. What started as a single event has transformed into a district-wide adventure. Other schools in Plainfield have embraced the "Crossing America" concept, and the Engineering Design Challenge has become a popular program. Students from across the district are now exploring national parks, getting inspired by Ranger Kip's stories, and tackling their own real-world challenges. The contagious spirit of curiosity and innovation is spreading like wildfire.

STEAM Dream Team: Students Changing the World
Plainfield students in fourth and fifth grade across the district have monthly opportunities at Plainfield’s middle school IdeaLab to connect with the national parks during the STEAM Dream Team after school club.  Expeditions in Education makes it easier than ever for students to connect with Park Rangers to solve real world problems. Fueled by knowledge and ignited with purpose, students feel empowered to be architects of positive change, sculpting a brighter future for us all. Click here to get a glimpse of the learning that is taking place! A picture is truly worth a thousand words.