A year-long, supported professional development program for interdisciplinary teams of K-12 teachers in the Lake Champlain Basin of New York, Vermont, and Quebec
The Watershed for Every Classroom Program is presented by the Champlain Basin Education Initiative, a community of organizations engaged in watershed education. Current partners include: The Lake Champlain Basin Program, Shelburne Farms, Lake Champlain Sea Grant, UVM Extension, Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, Lake Champlain Committee, and Community Sailing Center.
Explore the stories of the Lake Champlain Basin as shared by its people, places, and things. Learn how these stories offer multiple ways to teach all subjects; engage students in learning in and about their community; and build their sense of belonging to their home place.
The program is best suited for educators working with grades 4-9, but is applicable to all subject areas and grades.
We are currently accepting registrations to join our next cohort, A Watershed for Every Classroom 2023–24!
Registration Details
We are currently accepting registrations for A Watershed for Every Classroom 2023–24! The year long program kicks off with a multi-day summer gathering in July and continues to meet throughout the school year, and is typically offered every other year.
Interest forms are accepted on a rolling basis until June 1st or until program spaces fill (program capacity is 20 educators). All interested educators will be contacted by a course facilitator who will provide more information, course registration, and payment information.
Teams of two or more educators are encouraged to apply. Individuals are also welcome. Priority will be given to teams of educators working together within the same school or district. Individual teachers are welcome to apply, however we have seen more success in implementation of new curricula through teams.
The support of your administrator is important. You will be asked to provide a letter of support if accepted.
Fees
- $400 covers all program costs, including overnight accommodations and meals.
- Scholarships are available for the program. Please indicate scholarship interest on registration form.
- Three graduate credits are available through Castleton University for an additional fee.
Program Overview
2023-2024 Dates
- July 18-21, 2023 - Four Day Program
- October 13-14, 2023 - Two Day Program with Overnight
- January 19, 2024 - One Day Program
- March World Water Day - Date TBD Evening Program in Burlington, Vermont
- May 3-4, 2024 - Two Day Program with Overnight
Upon completion of the program, teachers will receive $100 for classroom resources and schools will receive $250 to implement place-based watershed curricula.
Participants should be willing to:
- Participate in all scheduled sessions.
- Complete readings, written reflections, and participate in collegial planning and dialogue.
- Develop watershed-based teaching curricula that integrates the local landscape. Curricula will exemplify the best practices of place-based education, including visiting local sites with students and engaging with community partners.
