“I’m going to do something that’s connected to the national parks or our or a state park near me so that I can use my knowledge and see the real world impact it has. And that way, I never am stuck in class asking, why is this important? Why on earth do I have to learn this?”
Every park holds stories waiting to be told. James Fester, an educator and former interpreter with California State Parks and the National Park Service, returns to discuss the ever-evolving connection between national parks and education. We explore the ways that parks have been successfully integrated into classrooms and the powerful outcomes of such collaborations.
In our conversation, James highlighted the unexpected silver lining brought forth by the challenges of COVID-19. With physical visits to parks curtailed, an abundance of educational resources came together. They were made with the intent to bridge the gap, allowing learning to thrive digitally. This shift not only kept educators connected but redefined how parks can reach students who might never set foot in them.
One of the statements James made has really stuck with me. He mentions that awareness is the first barrier for students far from national parks. He shares a story from his book about a Kansas schoolboy’s fascination with Crater Lake. That highlights the profound impact educators can have in introducing new generations to these natural wonders.
His book, “The National Park Classroom,” ties together park-based learning strategies and project-based approaches to enrich classroom learning. He shares that the inspirational work of educators without formal titles, like rangers and interpreters, have stories that resonate for years. Those experiences and interactions are what help instill lifelong curiosity. His resources are intended to empower educators and serve as a toolkit for park professionals to engage meaningfully with educational institutions.
Whether you’re an educator or park professional, James passion toward inspiring the next generation of conservationists is clear. Make sure to listen and connect with James to learn more about how park experiences can transform learning and inspire the next generation of conservationists. It’s all about creating unforgettable educational adventures.
Notable Moments
03:02 Parks’ Enhanced Virtual Learning Programs
05:30 The Value of Learning About Distant Places
12:39 Bridging Classrooms and Public Lands
17:53 Engaging Park Rangers as Educators
24:08 Enhancing Park Visitor Experience
26:14 Park Principles for Classroom Management
Connect with James
Order the Book The National Park Classroom
Resources
https://parkleaders.com/about/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/