Learning in Forest Park
Forest Park Forever believes strongly that nature is important to children’s development in every major way — intellectually, emotionally, socially, spiritually and physically. The many benefits of spending time outdoors, immersed in nature, continue through adulthood. With very few other “wild” spaces in metropolitan St. Louis, Forest Park Forever’s education and community outreach programs uniquely connect residents of all ages and backgrounds with nature and foster an appreciation and understanding of the many natural and cultural wonders found within Forest Park.
Here are just a few highlights from our educational programs during 2017:
7,671
Total number of participants across all FPF education programs
44,540
Hours spent learning in Forest Park by program participants
95
Total number of organizations and schools through our educational programs
1,455
Educators and students reached from high-needs regional communities
Program Highlights
Nature Works
This program facilitated hands-on experiential conservation education in the classrooms of 69 teachers, reaching 1,130 students + the summer internship aspect of the program welcomed 10 high schoolers who completed paid conservation internships alongside our team. Miranda, a 2017 Nature Works 2017 Participant, had this to say about her experience:
"I’m really glad I was a part of this. I honestly feel much more prepared for college as I search through possible majors. I also feel a lot closer with the natural world around me. I’ve always loved nature, but I now feel as if I can put my love to good use."
Nature Works Press Feature
"The natural classroom: Summer programs put biology in kids’ hands" on St. Louis Public Radio
Voyage of Teachers' Learning Academy
Forest Park Forever's Voyage of Learning Teachers' Academy (VOLTA) is an annual program that invites local teachers to experience Forest Park as an outdoor classroom. For eight days in July, teachers from every grade level and specializing in a wide variety of subjects come together to do a deep dive into the world of experiential education, learning how they might incorporate the outdoors — and Forest Park — into their curriculum.
FPF Blog Spotlight
"A Firsthand Account of This Summer's Voyage of Learning Teachers' Academy"