DCP Offers Project WILD Training

Students learn about lifecycles by investigating the wide
variety of new life inhabiting a decomposing log.

Darke County Parks invites teachers and educators of all types on Saturday, October 1st from 9am to 4pm at Shawnee Prairie Preserve Nature Center, to explore the fascinating world of wildlife and ecosystems using fun and hands-on educational activities. Whether you are a regular classroom teacher or an informal educator, you will learn adaptable activities for all age levels and receive both the Project WILD and Project aquatic WILD K-12 activity guides.

Project WILD is a supplementary education program emphasizing awareness, appreciation, and understanding of wildlife and natural resources. Project WILD teaches young people how to think about wildlife, not what to think. Students in kindergarten through twelfth grade learn basic concepts about wild animals, their needs and importance, and their relationships to people and the environment. The hands-on, diverse activities help develop problem-solving and decision making skills in determining responsible human actions.

The program is endorsed by the National Council for the Social Studies and is consistent with the recommendations of the National Science Teachers Association. The Project WILD curriculum has been aligned with Ohio's PreK-12 academic content standards in Science. Project WILD books are only available to individuals who attend a workshop. Find new ways to get kids outside and learning while meeting curriculum standards, networking with others in the field, and earning continuing education credits. Preregistration is required by September 9th. Lunch is not provided, so please pack your own lunch. A microwave and refrigerator are available.

For questions about this program or any other program offered by the Darke County Parks or to register for this free program, please stop by the nature center, call (937) 548-0165, or email info@darkecountyparks.org.