Classroom at Crater Lake

The Trust developed the Classroom at Crater Lake program to draw upon the Park's potential as a "classroom without walls" to increase the scientific knowledge of teachers and students alike.

The Classroom program provides two days of training for 4^th and 5^th grade teachers. Those teachers use the curriculum provided to help teach state-required science content, and bring their students to the Park for two visits. In Fall, Park staff educate the students about geology; in Spring, students don snowshoes to discuss Park wildlife.

Outside evaluations completed each year have shown over 80% of teachers increase their science knowledge, and 100% of the student work submitted has demonstrated an increase in science knowledge as well.

All program costs are paid by for by private donations to the Trust. Program partners include the Southern Oregon Educational Service District; Crater Lake National Park; and the Science and Learning Center.

Classroom at Crater Lake 2007-2008 Report

78 different classroom groups were brought to the Lake to learn and discover.  They represented:

• 38 schools from Klamath County to Canyonville to Ashland
  "It was cool to look at the trees with manifying glasses.  It was the best...trip ever."  Keil N.
• 12 school districts
• 4 counties
• And, 80% came from Title I schools (those with high concentrations of children from low-income families)

Over half of the teachers reported:

• At least 50% of the class had never been to Crater Lake
• After the trip, at least 50% of the class mentioned wanting careers in natural resources, as a Park Ranger or in science

Teachers report more than doubling their confidence in leading a trip to Crater Lake and for using Crater Lake as a viable tool for science content.

As we begin planning for Fall, we know that thousands of young students are looking forward to their turn to participate in this unique experience. These kids are hungry for knowledge, but are starved of learning resources. With your support, the Crater Lake Trust will be able to fulfill their dreams.

For just $40, you can make this program possible for a student in need; for $1,000 you can sponsor an entire classroom!

Please make a gift.

For more information, or to apply for training, contact Linda Hilligoss.