The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is inviting schools across the state to apply for its conservation education initiative and earn designation as an Arkansas School of Conservation Leadership.
The program is designed to help schools incorporate conservation and outdoor recreation into classroom learning. Through the initiative, teachers receive pre-designed lesson plans that align with state education standards, along with professional development opportunities to help bring outdoor education into the classroom.
Arkansas Outdoor Education Manager Derek Ratchford says the designation allows schools to take conservation education to the next level while giving students more opportunities to connect with the outdoors.
Schools that earn the designation may also qualify for additional grants to purchase equipment and supplies that support outdoor learning and conservation programs.
This marks the third recruitment period for the program. Thirteen schools completed the requirements to earn the designation during the first year, and a larger group of schools is currently working toward recognition during the current school year.
New additions to the program include mentor schools that will help guide new participants and share ideas on implementing conservation education. Students may also participate in conservation-based competitions connected to the AGFC’s Generation Conservation Summit.
More information about the School of Conservation Leadership program and how schools can apply is available at agfc.com/conservationleadership.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI