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Honoring the Legacy of Jimmy Carter

12/29/2024

Today, we join the nation in mourning the passing of President Jimmy Carter, a man whose life embodied kindness, humility, and service. Over the past four years, we have had the incredible honor of working alongside the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park and the Jimmy Carter Education Program (JICA) to help share the stories of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter with a new generation.

Through our work, we’ve grown to love not only the Carters but also the incredible community that surrounds their legacy. We’ve walked the same paths Jimmy once traveled, shared meals with community members and family in Plains, and seen firsthand the impact of his dedication to service, peace, and humanity.

We have also hosted STEAM in the PARK camps and retreats at the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park over the past few years. These programs have brought together educators from around the country, fostering a deeper understanding of the Carters' values and their unwavering commitment to building a better world. During these times, we’ve witnessed the transformative power of community and kindness—values that Jimmy Carter held close to his heart and exemplified throughout his life.

Jimmy Carter’s life reminds us of the profound power of ordinary people doing extraordinary things. From his leadership as President to his tireless work with Habitat for Humanity and his unshakable commitment to human rights, he inspired countless individuals to make a difference in their own communities.

Our time in Plains has been transformative. We’ve shared laughter, stories, and a deep sense of purpose with the people who continue to carry forward his legacy. Together, we’ve helped bring the Carters' vision and values to life for students, educators, and visitors from around the world.

While we are heartbroken to hear of his passing, our hearts are also full. Full of gratitude for the time we’ve spent at Jimmy Carter National Historical Park. Full of admiration for the man who showed us all what it means to lead with love and compassion. And full of hope knowing that his legacy lives on in every person touched by his life and work.

Jimmy Carter’s story is far from over. It continues in the lives he changed and in the hearts of those who carry his spirit forward. May we all strive to live with the same grace and dedication he exemplified every day.

Rest in peace, President Carter. Your light will never dim. ❤️

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Reflecting on Goals for 2025: More, More, More

12/20/2024

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As we look ahead to 2025, our guiding principle is simple: more, more, more. At first glance, this might sound selfish, or perhaps even greedy. But let me explain what "more" means to us—it’s not about taking but about giving. It’s about expanding our impact, deepening our connections, and using every opportunity to create meaningful experiences and inspire action.

We want to engage with more students, bringing them closer to the wonders of the natural world. Every time a student discovers the intricate patterns on a leaf or sees wildlife thriving in its natural habitat, a spark is lit—one that could grow into a lifetime of curiosity and stewardship. “Kids won’t protect what they don’t understand.” By helping them understand, we plant the seeds for a generation that will care for the planet more deeply than ever before.

We want to inspire more educators, equipping them to bring the magic of the outdoors into their classrooms. Teachers are the linchpin of change, and when we empower them with tools, stories, and experiences, they ripple that inspiration out to countless students. A teacher once told us, “Your programs remind me why I became an educator in the first place.” That’s the kind of difference we want to make—rekindling passion and providing practical ways to connect students to nature.

We also want to interact with more national parks and outdoor spaces, weaving the stories of these places into experiences that are both unforgettable and transformative. But this year, we’re stepping even further—into National Forests, state parks, and other wild spaces. As we grow, we’re reminded of Edward Abbey’s words: “Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit.” We want to share that necessity with as many people as possible.

Steve said it best: “It doesn’t do us any good to think outside of the box if we’re not willing to act outside the box.” So, we’re stepping outside that box with boldness and intentionality. This year, that means:

Hosting more family engagement nights that connect students and parents with hands-on experiences and practical ways to keep exploring after the event.
Releasing an exciting new middle school series featuring Lila and Toby, where young readers will uncover mysteries and learn about real-world environmental challenges.
Highlighting untold stories in our parks and forests—stories of the people, wildlife, and cultures that make these places extraordinary.
Working to build stronger partnerships with communities, organizations, and outdoor spaces to create programs that meet unique local needs.

Life is short, and the opportunities to give are endless. Every moment we spend inspiring a child, sparking an educator’s creativity, or supporting the work of conservation is a moment spent well. As we reflect on our work, we’re reminded of a simple truth: “When you love something, you’ll do everything you can to protect it.”

This year, we are challenging ourselves to dream bigger, push further, and embrace the possibilities of more. More engagement. More inspiration. More connections. Because when we give more, we grow more, and the ripple effect of our work can reach farther than we ever imagined.

Here’s to a year of no limits—a year of more, more, more. Together, let’s make 2025 extraordinary.

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The Road to Happiness is a Nature Trail!

12/4/2024

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At Expeditions in Education, we believe happiness isn’t just a concept—it’s an adventure. And what better way to kickstart that adventure than a walk on a nature trail?

Forget screens, fluorescent lights, and stuffy classrooms for a moment. Picture this: the trees are your walls, the sky is your ceiling, and every step unveils a new discovery. Magic, right?

Here’s the thing: nature isn’t just beautiful—it’s brilliant. It’s a teacher that turns every outing into a field trip filled with laughter, learning, and maybe a little dirt under your nails. (Don’t worry—dirt washes off, but memories stick forever!)

🌟 Why Does Nature Matter in Education?
Nature is basically a superhero for the brain:
✨ Boosts creativity
✨ Reduces stress
✨ Improves focus

For students, it’s like watching a science textbook come alive. For teachers, it’s trading PowerPoints for pinecones and seeing students light up with curiosity.

But nature goes beyond facts. It teaches life lessons:
🌲 Problem-Solving: Finding trails, identifying plants, or figuring out directions sharpens critical thinking.
💪 Confidence & Resilience: Turning "I can’t" into "I DID IT!" on a steep hill is unforgettable.
🤝 Teamwork: Helping friends over a log or discovering wildlife together builds connections.

🌿 The Joy of Discovery
Nothing beats the thrill of finding a weird bug, a hidden path, or the quiet beauty of a babbling brook. These moments spark curiosity, joy, and a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.

Want to Bring Nature to Learning? Try This:
🪴 Start small: A school garden or a nearby park works wonders.
📚 Mix it up: Use leaves for math, or write wind-inspired poetry.
📝 Reflect: Journals and discussions turn moments into memories.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Involve families: Host a scavenger hunt or a group hike for extra fun!

Life is a Nature Trail
Like a trail, life has twists, turns, and challenges—but it’s also full of breathtaking views and “aha!” moments. Happiness isn’t a destination; it’s the journey.

So lace up those boots, step into the wild, and let the adventure begin. 🌟 The trail is waiting for you! 💚

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Honoring the Legacy of Jimmy Carter

Reflecting on Goals for 2025: More, More, More

​The Road to Happiness is a Nature Trail!

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The Road to Happiness is a Nature Trail!