Open to all teachers in DC, MD, VA, PA.

As the largest estuary in the country, the Chesapeake Bay is a vast outdoor classroom abundant in wildlife, habitats, and teachable moments. Join the Chesapeake Bay Foundation for a five-day ecological study of the ecosystems and communities found at the heart of the Bay. Participants will spend two days in a virtual class setting learning introductory Bay science, Chesapeake history, and the Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience framework. The final three days of the course will take place on Port Isobel, an island in the heart of the Bay near Tangier Island, VA. Through hands-on field investigations, participants will experience the beauty and challenges facing the Chesapeake all while learning the benefits environmental education has on student engagement, mental health and wellbeing, and community connection.

Length & Location: Five days of collaborative, outdoor learning. Monday-Tuesday synchronous online learning. Wednesday-Friday at CBF’s Port Isobel Island Environmental Education Center for a residential experience where dorm-style housing, meals, and ferry transport are provided. The ferry will depart from and return to Smith Point Marina in Reedville, VA. Please note, teachers are responsible for travel to and from the ferry location.

Course Credit: Upon successful course completion, participants may be eligible for continuing education credit or contact hours. Graduate credit is also available and requires additional forms and fees. See details on the Professional Learning Credits page.

Orientation:  Attendance at one virtual orientation is required prior to the course. Orientations are hosted at 7 p.m. on May 22, June 12, and July 24. Meeting links will be provided.

Cost: $575.

Scholarships: Teachers may apply for a full or partial scholarship using this form. If eligible, a promo code will be provided to reduce the cost of the course.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made before June 1 will receive a full refund minus a $75 processing fee. No refunds will be granted after June 1; however, we are happy to transfer registration to another course, based on availability. All cancellation requests must be made in writing. Email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to request a cancellation or transfer.

Registration closes July 15, 2024.

Return to the Chesapeake Classrooms web page.

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