Thousands of students in Illinois are set to gain hands-on conservation education thanks to a substantial initiative by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Over $99,600 has been allocated to fund educational field trips, offering more than 7,000 students the chance to explore and learn in state parks. This funding, provided by private foundations, encompasses 113 grants across 32 counties, ensuring that crucial elements of classroom learning are reinforced through real-world experiences in nature. These trips are designed to cultivate a deeper understanding of conservation and the environment among young learners.
“This program allows students to visit natural, outdoor locations throughout Illinois to see firsthand what they’ve been learning about in the classroom,” said IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie. “Our future conservation leaders need the opportunity to experience Illinois’ natural resources in person. We are pleased to be able to support learning outside the classroom with these grants and are grateful to the donors for their support.”
For more information about the Illinois Biodiversity Field Trip Grant Program, contact the IDNR division of education at [email protected]. ICF gladly accepts donations for the Illinois Biodiversity Field Trip Grant Program. Go online for additional information
Kendall
Oswego SD308, Oswego. Second grade. Harris Forest Preserve, Yorkville. $540.
Knox
ROWVA Jr/Sr High Schol, Oneida. Ninth and 10th grades. WIU, Macomb. $275.
ROWVA Jr/Sr High Schol, Oneida. Ninth through 12th grades. Snake Den Hollow SFWA, Victoria. $275.
ROWVA Jr/Sr High Schol, Oneida. Ninth through 12th grades. Wildlife Prairie Park, Hanna City. $500.
La Salle
United West Elementary, Monmouth. Kindergarten. Starved Rock State Park, Utica. $785.
Peoria
Annie Jo Gordon Community Learning Center, Peoria. Seventh grade. Starved Rock State Park, Utica. $1,000.
Dunlap Valley Middle School, Dunlap. Sixth grade. Wildlife Prairie Park, Hanna City. $1,000.
Mark Bills Middle School, Peoria. Fifth through eighth grades. Starved Rock State Park, Utica. $1,205.
Peoria Academy, Peoria. Kindergarten through fifth grades. Forest Park Nature Center, Peoria Heights. $865.
Reservoir Gifted Academy, Peoria. Sixth grade. Matthiessen State Park, Oglesby. $1,025.
Wilson Intermediate School, Pekin. Fourth grade. Wildlife Prairie Park, Hanna City. $1,202.95.
