The First Five Weeks of #STEAMinthePARK 2024: Where Educators Become Adventurers

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.
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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.