So, here we are, day 55 out of 82 on the road with #STEAMinthePARK. Spending 24/7 with my husband in life and work – who would've thought it wouldn't drive us nuts? But, actually, it's kinda amazing. We've got this rhythm, you know? I mean, he even washes our clothes every week, bless him. Clean clothes, thank goodness, because I keep wearing the same stuff over and over. Surprisingly, that's not so bad. Diet Dr. Pepper, my little vice. It's the one thing I allow myself, and honestly, I’m okay with it. Makeup? Forget it. Out here, who needs it? Nature’s got all the beauty I need. And water – oh, I’ve come to appreciate it so much more. Pure, refreshing, vital. Making new friends along the way, it's like my heart just keeps expanding. There's always room for more people, more connections. And you know what? Not watching or reading the news – such a relief for my soul. Keeps me focused on the good stuff. Determined to make a difference, that’s what keeps me going. Kindness, it’s the only way to deal with people, I swear. Miss peanut butter though – such a little thing, but I do miss it. Yet, being right where God wants us? That’s everything. I’m grateful, really grateful. I miss my family at home and will be glad to spend some time with them soon. These are my ramblings for the day.
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At STEAM in the PARK, we often receive inquiries asking, "Can you create a camp specifically for computer science, just history, the arts, or other content?" Our answer might surprise you: it's not about tailoring our camps to fit a particular subject. Instead, STEAM in the PARK is about providing transformative experiences that transcend traditional content areas, inspiring educators to infuse their classrooms with renewed curiosity and engagement.
The Power of Nature Nature possesses a unique ability to transform learning spaces into dynamic, active environments. When educators step into the great outdoors, they rediscover the awe and wonder they felt as children. This rekindling of curiosity is not confined to any single subject but spans across all content areas. Whether you teach math, science, history, or the arts, the experiences you gain at STEAM in the PARK will enrich your teaching in unexpected and profound ways. Rediscovering Awe Our experiential approach offers educators opportunities to find themselves again. Away from the confines of textbooks and lesson plans, they engage in hands-on activities that reignite their passion for learning. This renewed enthusiasm is not just about the subjects they teach but about how they teach. When educators rediscover their own sense of awe, they bring that same sense of wonder back to their students, no matter what the subject. A Safe Space for All Educators At STEAM in the PARK, we create a safe and inclusive environment where all educators can find their place. Here, teachers from diverse backgrounds come together to share experiences, collaborate, and support one another. Our camps are not about fitting into a particular mold or following a prescribed method. Instead, we empower educators to transform their teaching in ways that resonate with their unique styles and their students' needs. Transforming Classrooms with New Curiosity The true value of STEAM in the PARK lies in the adventures we provide. These experiences equip educators with fresh perspectives and innovative approaches that make their classrooms more engaging. By stepping out of their comfort zones and into nature, teachers gain the tools and inspiration to offer their students opportunities to change the world. No Products Needed You don't need to buy a product or teach a certain way before you join us at STEAM in the PARK. We believe in the power of experiences to drive change. Our camps offer a wealth of adventures that empower you to make your classroom a more dynamic and exciting place for learning. We've got you covered, providing the support and inspiration you need to bring back transformative experiences to your students. Join Us If you're ready to rediscover your passion for teaching, to find new ways to engage your students, and to experience the transformative power of nature, STEAM in the PARK is the place for you. Join us on this journey, and let's create classrooms where curiosity knows no bounds and learning becomes an adventure. I apologize for being a bit slow on posts lately, but I have been so busy being mesmerized by the change that can happen in people when they feel valued, accepted, and seen. #STEAMinthePARK provides opportunities for educators to step out of their comfort zone and truly experience the beauty and healing power of nature. As John Muir said, "In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks." This week has been a totally different experience at Acadia National Park. Sure, we had the tide pools, the crabs, THE porcupine, and the dark skies, but we also had the excitement of wonder and curiosity, the building of new friendships, the discovery of one's purpose, and the rekindling of the fire inside of us. We have one more full day together to learn, explore, and find value in who we are before everyone heads home tomorrow. But I promise you, this group will definitely stay connected. Day 42/82, here we go! Photos by Steve and Campers! This summer, educators from every corner of the country have swapped their classrooms for campfires, diving headfirst into the wild world of #STEAMinthePARK. Over the past five weeks, this unique program has brought together a diverse group of teachers for an unforgettable blend of education, adventure, and fun. Picture this: teachers from bustling urban schools, quiet rural towns, and everything in between, all converging in the heart of America’s national parks. From New York City’s energetic science teachers to Kansas’s laid-back math wizards, these educators have turned #STEAMinthePARK into a vibrant melting pot of personalities and backgrounds. Each evening, after a day packed with exploration and learning, these educators gather around roaring campfires for the quintessential camp treat—s’mores. And we’re not talking about just once or twice; no, we’ve made it a thrice-nightly tradition. Between the gooey marshmallows, melted chocolate, and graham crackers, stories and laughter flow freely. It’s a time for everyone to share their day’s adventures, swap teaching anecdotes, and perhaps exaggerate a bear sighting or two. The wildlife at #STEAMinthePARK has been nothing short of spectacular. Our educators have had front-row seats to nature’s finest shows. They’ve spotted moose grazing peacefully, watched bears meander through the woods, and admired plovers darting along the shorelines. One camper finishing up a morning bathroom hike, encountered a bear that decided to join us, clearly interested in our breakfast casserole. Who says badges are just for kids? Our educators have enthusiastically embraced the chance to earn their Junior Ranger badges. With guidance from our expert park rangers, they’ve dived into conservation activities, learned about local ecosystems, and proudly taken the Junior Ranger pledge. The pride they feel in earning these badges is palpable, and their students back home are sure to be impressed. Our park rangers have been the true rock stars of #STEAMinthePARK. These knowledgeable and passionate individuals have shared their expertise, leading hikes and hosting educational sessions that captivate and inspire. Their stories of conservation efforts and wildlife encounters have left our educators in awe, deepening their appreciation for these natural wonders. The trails have offered a mix of serene beauty and physical challenge, with each hike unveiling new vistas and hidden treasures. And for those seeking an extra thrill, the cold plunges into crystal-clear waters have been a hit. The shrieks of surprise and laughter that accompany these icy dips are unforgettable, bonding everyone through shared exhilaration. Despite returning to their respective corners of the country, the connections forged at #STEAMinthePARK remain strong. Through a lively exchange of emails, texts, Facebook posts, and WhatsApp conversations, our educators continue to share updates, celebrate milestones, and support one another. The camp community lives on, proving that the friendships formed in the wilderness are truly lasting. With seven more weeks of #STEAMinthePARK on the horizon, the excitement is building. New adventures, new faces, and new stories await. Our educators are ready to embrace the unknown, eager to make more memories and deepen their connections to nature and each other. The first five weeks of #STEAMinthePARK 2024 have been a whirlwind of discovery, friendship, and fun. This unique program has shown that when educators step out of their classrooms and into the great outdoors, amazing things happen. As the journey continues, one thing is certain: #STEAMinthePARK is changing lives, one adventure at a time. If you are an educator interested in joining #STEAMinthePARK, make sure to get on the inquiry list at expeditionsineducation.org. Applications open on January 1, 2025. We're wrapping up an incredible Camp 3 at @AssateagueNPS and @CBFieldStation! It's been an amazing week, and we are happily exhausted. The educators and park rangers here have filled our hearts and spirits to the brim.
This week was packed with 6 fantastic programs: surf fishing , crabbing , seining and plankton labs , kayaking , marshland mudding , and a nocturnal hike . And that’s just the start! We also had an engineering design challenge, journaling, games, tutu-making, a Lego competition, campfires, and ice-cream making . Add in free time, new friendships, shared rooms, and delicious meals, and it truly felt like a slice of heaven on earth. And did we mention that the weather, which had been scorchingly hot before we arrived, was perfect? Plus, the bugs were not as buggy as expected! A special shoutout to Ambassador LeAnn! She almost won a $100 gift card for bravely venturing into the mud pool, but since the field station charged $150 to get her out, that gift has been... well, denied. Tomorrow, Steve and I head to Camp #4 at Mount Rainier , taking with us a little sunburn, a lot of new friends, and countless smiles. There's always room for more smiles here! See you soon, Rainier! #STEAMinthePARK #FindYourPeople Teton Science Schools graciously hosted us in the breathtaking beauty of the Tetons. Our heartfelt thanks go out to Maddie, our incredible host, and the fantastic facilitators Leslie and Kate. We also had the privilege of learning from Rangers Megan and Dyani, who shared their extensive knowledge and deep love for this land. Together, they made our experience unforgettable! Moose sightings and marveling at the Milky Way were some of the highlights of our Wyoming experience. Our small yet significant place in the universe was made clear to us by the nights filled with awe and wonder. 🌌✨ Our exploration was profoundly enhanced by learning about the indigenous connections to this sacred place. We discovered how deeply connected we are to the world around us and how the stories of the land shape our understanding of life and our responsibility to it. Bottom line- BE A GOOD HUMAN! As we observed the rapidly melting snow, we witnessed firsthand how climate change is impacting water levels and quality. This vital lesson led us to study macroinvertebrates and soil samples, providing a window into the health of the local ecosystem. We were thrilled to work with researchers, scientists, and professors at the University of Wyoming. Their WY-ADAPT program is a great way for students to see research in action. Our culinary journey was equally delightful, thanks to Chef Ty, whose passion for food is only rivaled by his love for Prince and Michael Jackson. And don't forget the gourmet s'mores- yummy! The campers each came with their own vision of what STEAM in the PARK would entail, and they are now leaving with shared experiences and newfound common ground. Reflecting on our time in the Tetons, we're reminded of how these experiences prompt us to ponder the meaning of life in such a powerful and profound way. We're grateful for the friends we've made, who have now become part of our extended family. 📝 Quote of the Day: "Friends are the family we choose for ourselves." For the past three years, Camp Brookside at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve has been more than just a place for STEAM in the PARK; it has become a cherished home away from home. This historic camp, built in the 1940s to provide a retreat for the children of Union Carbide workers, has embraced a new generation of campers—our eager educators. Our journey with New River Gorge National Park and Preserve began with a vital connection: Chief Eve West. Her enthusiasm and dedication opened the doors for us, laying the foundation for our unforgettable experiences at Camp Brookside. In our inaugural year, we were welcomed by Sheila Malone, a passionate education ranger who set the tone for our adventures with her knowledge and enthusiasm. The past two years, we have been fortunate to have Ranger Lori guide us, bringing her own unique energy and deep connection to the park. She has a deep love of Camp Brookside and her desire to introduce students to the outdoors is so fun to watch. Both rangers have been instrumental in creating a rich learning environment that blends the beauty of nature with the excitement of discovery. Camp Brookside, with its rustic charm and rich history, has provided the perfect backdrop for our explorations. The front porch, adorned with rocking chairs, has been a sanctuary for meaningful conversations, laughter, and moments of reflection. It’s here, with the gentle sway of the chairs and the sounds of the river, that we have forged connections and shared stories that will last a lifetime. Our time at Camp Brookside has been filled with incredible learning experiences. Through the dragonfly mercury project, we gained valuable insights into environmental science, understanding the intricate connections between creatures and their habitats. Paul Shaw’s passionate moth studies opened our eyes to the fascinating world of these nocturnal insects, revealing the delicate balance of our ecosystem. We have also been deeply touched by the generosity of the local community. The Active Southern WV group has not only shared their time but also their paddle boards, allowing our campers to experience the joy and thrill of exploring the river. And who could forget the unforgettable gift from Bridge Walk and Benjy Simpson, which gave 100 of our campers the opportunity to conquer their fears and walk across the bridge, creating memories of courage and triumph. A heartfelt shoutout goes to Joy Marr, who has nourished us with her delicious meals over the years. Her culinary creations have not only filled our stomachs but also brought us together, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. As we reflect on our time at Camp Brookside, we are filled with gratitude. This place, with its history and natural beauty, and the people who have become part of our extended family, have made STEAM in the PARK at New River Gorge truly special. Thanks for the memories! At STEAM in the PARK, the community is the heart and soul of the experience. Beyond the incredible learning opportunities, the stunning beauty of our national parks, the inspiring rangers, and the thrilling new adventures, it is the sense of community that truly defines our camps. On June 6th, 23 campers arrived at Camp Brookside within New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Many of them were strangers, having only interacted through WhatsApp and Facebook prior to their arrival. This moment is always a blend of excitement and a bit of nervousness. This year's group at NERI was quirky, smart, unique, and talented, with some feeling a touch of nervousness. It took just until after the first meal for the magic to begin. I believe it was during the book exchange that the real connections started to form. They found their new book friends, and from that point on, a bond of community started to weave its way through each camper. The transformation from strangers to a tight-knit community happened swiftly. They shared laughter, stories, and experiences that created lasting memories. The first glances of curiosity turned into smiles of recognition and eventually into lasting hugs of friendship. When I look back on these amazing adventures, even when I am too old to remember all the details, it is the community I will cherish the most. The magic that happens when a group of strangers becomes a family, united by their love for learning and the great outdoors, is what makes STEAM in the PARK so special. In just two days- we hope to make this magic happen again in Kelly, Wyoming at Grand Teton National Park. Well, we are up to year four. This summer, we have close to 400 campers heading to another 12 national parks. I know you were expecting more camps this summer, but it turns out there are only three months in a school summer. We are adding three new national park sites to our repertoire: Grand Teton (GRTE), Assateague Island (ASIS), and Mount Rainier (MORA), and we couldn't be more excited. So what does this mean to us? Well, Steve and I both love national parks, camping, and family. We have decided to spend our work time helping others make memories, supporting educators, and doing it all together. We are also adding another family camp this year, building on the success and joy of last year's family camp at Acadia. (Hopefully you will meet Oliver, Lincoln, and Tony in a few years at one of them.) Next year, 2025, will be year five for us. We have lots of fun stuff planned, but I can't tell yet (and you know how hard that is for me). But rest assured, we will keep our mission of connecting, collaborating, and creating at the forefront of our work. We are so thankful for those who helped us begin this work and those who have stayed with us. We aren't perfect, and we have made some mistakes, but hopefully, we have grown from them. When will we end this? We don't know. Right now, we are keeping our eyes focused straight ahead. As Mary Oliver says, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” Our answer is that we plan to keep on keeping on. In Micah, it says God wants to see in us: justice, kindness, and humility. That. We plan to do that. Can we do it again? Would there really be enough people to try again in 2023? Again, with the math. Eight camps were a lot, but Steve said, "Let's do all the camps that ask us." Well, that was 12. Yes, you heard it. Twelve STEAM in the PARK camps.
We quickly realized that we couldn't do this without help, so thankfully, our campers stood up again, and we were able to bring 33 ambassadors with us in 2023. It's not just about the actual week of camp; there are months beforehand that we utilize for building community. We needed people who believed in our mission, supported us, and wanted to move forward with us. So we set out to plan 2023. This time, we didn't need to worry about finding parks. They had heard about us and were reaching out to us. We were heading to Great Smoky Mountains (GRSM), Mammoth Cave (MACA), Cumberland Island (CUIS), New River Gorge (NERI), Hawai'i Volcanoes (HAVO), Redwood (REDW), Jimmy Carter NHP (JICA), Acadia (ACAD), Rocky Mountain (ROMO), Olympic (OLYM), and Voyageurs (VOYA). On January 1st, we opened up applications again, and this time, there was no panic. Applications from around the country poured in, and we were overwhelmed with the goodness that came out of them. This summer, we decided to try something new. We invited educators to Acadia National Park and allowed them to bring their families. It sounded a little scary to have tiny humans in the tidepools, but what could go wrong? It was an amazing summer, one of our best, and at the end of year three, we knew we had started something that just couldn't end. The experiences of salamander hunting, waterfalls, sea turtles, dragonfly surveys, volcano searching, python hunting, banana slug searching, celebrating Jimmy and Rosalyn Carter, tidepooling, horseback riding, Salish canoeing, and chasing loons would be our best yet. 2024? Continued tomorrow. |