During the 2007 season, 202 schools, 6,652 students and their teachers participated in watershed education programs sponsored by the DCNR Bureau of State Parks’ environmental education specialists.

Similar to last year, State Parks and environmental education centers facilitated more programs with students than teachers, as indicated by the attendance at field trainings, student summits, and program orientations.

The shift from teachers to students was expected as environmental education specialists expanded the program from the introductory stage of teacher workshops to involving students.

Student participation with park staff leveled off this year, once again reaching over 3,000 participants. Another 3,500 students are still actively involved in the program but are working directly through their teachers.

The number of teacher workshops offered successfully increased slightly this year. Additionally in the upcoming 2008 school year, all schools will be tested using the Department of Education’s academic standards for Environment and Ecology.

More information, visit DCNR’s Watershed Education webpage or contact Amy Hill, Natural Resource Program Specialist, Bureau of State Parks, at 717-783-4361.

5/23/2008