Arizona State Parks and Trails is offering a free school program to expose more students to the outdoors without leaving the classroom.
In partnership with the non-profit Post Pigeon EDU, Arizona State Parks and Trails plans to launch the program featuring three state parks: Kartchner Caverns, Oracle and Red Rock.
Post Pigeon will offer tailored curriculum for teachers, and students will be able to send their questions to rangers. Then rangers will respond with customized video messages. Post Pigeon says teachers would have students reflect on what they have learned, and how it connects to their own community.
“We provide the opportunity for your class to get answers straight from them. To spark curiosity, to inspire to look outwards, to learn, not just with books but through human connection, according to a video from the program.
Michelle Thompson with the state parks agency said although it’s virtual, the program gives students access to parks that they may otherwise never see.
“We have 33 parks across the state but we don’t have any parks in Maricopa County. So we understand that sometimes it’s hard, it costs money for field trips," Thompson said.
Post Pigeon also says the curriculum aims to introduce students to possible career paths in outdoor recreation.
Curriculums for Kartchner Caverns and Oracle will be available by this summer. Teachers can access Red Rock State Park’s materials now.
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