We understand that students are the next generation of Great Basin National Park stewards. We work to inspire, educate, and connect students to Great Basin National Park through place-based, Next Generation Science Standard-driven educational programs.
Lesson Plans
Great Basin National Park Foundation offers a wide range of free, Next Generation Science Standard-aligned lesson plans that teachers can use to bring Great Basin National Park into the classroom. Our fourth grade curriculum is a series of seven lesson plans that cover the ecology, geology, and natural history of Great Basin National Park. For students in grades K - 12, we also offer a wide range of astronomy and dark sky lesson plans. For schools located in White Pine County, Nevada and Millard County, Utah, our Star Boxes provide all of the materials and support necessary to lead a unit based on Great Basin ecology or astronomy.
Virtual Programs
Great Basin National Park Foundation leads virtual programs about Great Basin National Park for schools across Nevada and around the country. These programs focus on Lehman Caves, Great Basin National Park's dark skies, or other topics by request. We are able to accomodate students of all grade levels, as well as home schooled students. Please email GreatBasinEducation@gmail.com to schedule a presentation. In the email, please include the grade level of your students, the desired topic, and a few potential times.
Classroom Visits
We are able to lead in person classroom programs for schools located in White Pine County, Nevada and Millard County, Utah. We have a variety of lesson plans available, all guided by the Next Generation Science Standards. Program topics can include astronomy, ecology, geology, and more. We provide all necessary materials. Classroom programs are available for students of all grade levels, but we give priority to fourth grade classes, in alignment with the National Park Service's fourth-grade initiative, Every Kid Outdoors. Please email GreatBasinEducation@gmail.com to learn more and to schedule a classrom program.
Astronomy Education
One of Great Basin National Park's most precious resources are its pristine night skies. Astronomy education provides an avenue for students to learn critical math and science concepts while considering their place in the universe. Our Double Star Research Program allows middle school and high school students to conduct astronomical research and write a peer-reviewed, published scientific paper under the guidance of college professors. If you think this program could be a good fit for your class, please contact GreatBasinEducation@gmail.com.
Field Trips
Hoping to visit Great Basin National Park with your class? Please email GreatBasinEducation@gmail.com. We can offer support coordinating field trips, providing activities, and assisting with logistics. Please note that the feasibility of field trips is dependent on Great Basin National Park staff capacity.
Please direct all questions about our educational offerings to GreatBasinEducation@gmail.com.
We would love to hear your suggestions, requests, and thoughts!
Image: Students from David E Norman Elementary School in Ely, Nevada tour Lehman Caves during a field trip to Great Basin National Park. Credit: David E Norman Elementary School.