Requirements and Expectations of Participating Schools:

  • Complete “Partner Agreement” that includes administrator support/signature
  • Receive curriculum training (varies based on partner provider)
  • Field site visits
  • Implementation of the full curriculum (pre and post for all seasons)
  • Reporting on participation to partner providers

Teachers – the Critical Link
Mighty Acorns is, by design, a collaborative program. Teachers provide the critical link to the classroom for this field-based program. They agree to participate in three field trips per academic year, one in each season, and to carry out pre- and post- field trip activities in the classroom. These lessons are aligned with the Common Core and Next Gen science standards and help to support a more meaningful and lasting experience for the students.

Teachers may also recruit volunteers from classroom parents or the school community to help with the field trips and stewardship activities.

Training
Mighty Acorns teachers do not need to be nature experts. All that is needed is a love of nature and ability to work well with students. Through training led by partner staff, teachers gain in-depth knowledge about the region’s natural history, become comfortable with the field site, and learn field and classroom activities through which to lead students.

Teachers are strongly encouraged to carry out the pre-and post-field trip lessons in class each season.

Support and Resources
In the implementation year, partner staff works intensively with teachers to ensure that they are comfortable with the program, that the program has multiple links into the curriculum, and that the program is meeting academic standards and goals. During the first year, partners and teachers identify long-term goals for the program’s development and leadership at the school. In subsequent years, partners continue to act as a resource for each school and tailor support based on local needs.

Links to?

Sample Lessons

Curriculum Map

Standards & how the curriculum was developed (5 Es)

Benefits: Why be a Mighty Acorns school?

Testimonials

Contact us for more information.