During the school year 2023-2024, Crossing America embarked on an ambitious mission to actively involve students nationwide in the beauty of our national parks. By visiting schools and hosting LiveStreams, we directly interacted with over 100,000 students, while hundreds of thousands more engaged with our recorded events. Our collaboration with national parks, schools, communities, and park rangers was exceptionally outstanding. Together, we exceeded our expectations tenfold in terms of both participation numbers and partnerships. This remarkable project was made achievable thanks to the generous support of the National Park Foundation, to whom we express eternal gratitude. Throughout the year, we observed each participating school developing a stronger commitment to becoming guardians of our national parks. By nurturing a sense of gratitude and recognizing the value of these natural treasures, we left a lasting impact on the upcoming generation. Looking ahead to the school year 2024-2025, we are filled with eager anticipation and enthusiasm for the continuous expansion of our program and the deepening of our partnerships with schools, communities, and national parks. Together, we will persist in inspiring and enlightening future generations about the importance of safeguarding and treasuring our national parks for the years ahead.
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March 15, 1989-March 15, 2024: Today marks a day for reflecting on the path we didn't choose. This could have been the moment I made my retirement official, entering a phase of relaxation and leaving a legacy. However, fate guided us in a completely different direction. A few years ago, we took a risk by stepping away from the security of our careers, diving into an uncertain yet thrilling venture. It's fascinating how retirement, once a distant dream, has now become less important. But I have no regrets. Steve and I are leading a meaningful life, where financial retirement pales in comparison to the satisfaction we get from our daily work. I've realized that true wealth isn't just about money, but about having a common goal and enthusiasm, exploring different places, and collaborating with your closest companion. The idea of retirement now feels almost unfamiliar to us. Our days are filled with activities that don't feel like work, surrounded by a community that values more than just material success. As a result of this journey, we have redefined what it means to be 'wealthy.' We measure wealth not by the money in a retirement account, but by the moments of joy, love, and contentment that come from living a purpose-driven life. What shapes our unconventional approach to retirement? It's built on relationships and the simple joy of being actively involved in each other's lives. We hope that our story can inspire those considering following their passions instead of conforming to the usual path. The road less traveled may not lead to a typical retirement, but it can guide you towards a life filled with love, purpose, and the certainty that those we've touched will always have a place for us. And if we ever need a place to stay down the road, there's always the kids. 🤣 If you're interested in learning more about our work, feel free to explore our website! Day 1: This week, we're happy to be partnering with San Juan National Historic Site to facilitate the onboarding of 8 American Conservation Experience (ACE) interns from Puerto Rico! 🇵🇷 These talented interns bring a diverse range of experiences, from archaeology to wildlife biology to special education and beyond. During their time with us, interns will participate in project-based learning activities designed by Expeditions, focusing on sustainability and environmental protection in Puerto Rico. Today they've been hard at work designing sustainable structures to withstand environmental threats and crafting a plan to protect the endangered Puerto Rican Harlequin Butterfly. 🦋 But the excitement doesn't stop there! Tomorrow, we'll be bringing their passions to life as they design workshops, table talks, demonstrations, and presentations for special castle tours tailored for those with special needs, as well as wellness experiences for all visitors. They'll also delve into wildlife classes dealing with invasive species and explore connections to the indigenous peoples of Puerto Rico through immersive experiences. We're beyond thrilled to be here nurturing these young interns and helping them discover their passion and purpose at San Juan National Historic Site. Stay tuned for updates throughout the week! A thank you to Rangers Carlos and Kina for bringing us here to beautiful San Juan. hashtag#WherePassionMeetsPurpose Shoutout to our amazing American Conservation Experience interns at San Juan National Historic Site. (A special thanks to the Friends of San Juan National Historic Site for hosting us this week!) From crafting engaging activities for students to heartwarming moments like saving a cat together, they are truly off to a great start. Today, they shared stories, created some amazing activities for kids, sang a beautiful Spanish song, and made us laugh. ACE is knocking it out of the park with these exceptional interns here in Puerto Rico! 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! 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. From Classroom to Shoreline: How Guilford Elementary Set the Stage for a District-Wide Adventure2/5/2024 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! 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. To truly understand me and Expeditions in Education, I feel that I must share more about myself...
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 I believe it's time to redefine the essence of excellent, genuine teaching. The term 'REIMAGINE' is often used, but I fear it's becoming a hollow mantra rather than a call to action. On a recent visit to a school, I was disheartened to learn from an inspiring teacher that their district had restricted the curriculum to only math and reading, excluding science and social studies except for special events like ours. This decision, driven by political concerns about offending some parties, is a disservice to education. It's vital that those guiding our educational system realize the importance of offering a comprehensive education. Excluding subjects for political correctness hinders the development of future change-makers. This revelation from the teacher was deeply upsetting, but all I could offer was gratitude for the learning opportunity they provided their students. My role is to support and motivate teachers and students, and I sincerely hope our efforts are making a difference, though I wish we could do more. Imagine what would happen if people truly tried to be good humans and prepared our students to be the same.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”- Nelson Mandela #CrossingAmerica #ExpeditionsInEducation 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! |