Nature to the Classroom (NTTC) is a project conceived by Utah Valley University students and faculty to reach out to local K-12 schools and collaboratively create opportunities to incorporate nature into the classroom. Recent research on school children has reported disturbing trends in childhood obesity, social isolation, behavioral and attention deficit issues, and what author Richard Louv (2012) calls “Nature Deficit Disorder”. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that exposure

Nature to the Classroom (NTTC) is a project conceived by Utah Valley University students and faculty to reach out to local K-12 schools and collaboratively create opportunities to incorporate nature into the classroom. Recent research on school children has reported disturbing trends in childhood obesity, social isolation, behavioral and attention deficit issues, and what author Richard Louv (2012) calls “Nature Deficit Disorder”. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that exposure to a natural environment can be a potent tool for teachers: Boosting learning retention, reducing stress, and improving focus. What NTTC is attempting to achieve is a dedicated and growing body of educators who recognize the importance of getting youth outside, engaging with their environment in active learning and active play, and using nature as a tool to enhance the existing curriculum in schools.

This project brings teachers together to learn about the benefits of nature education and teach practical steps to help them make it happen. Educators from schools in and around Utah Valley are being recruited to participate in a four-day three-night conference at the UVU Field Station at Capitol Reef National Park. Through presentations, discussion, group initiatives and collaboration, teachers will return to the classroom with lesson plans designed toward incorporating nature into their curriculum.

To receive credit, there is a required assignment that must be turned in no later than three months following the conference. This assignment will be an original lesson plan incorporating nature into any subject, meeting core standards. A detailed breakdown of the assignment will be provided at the conference. To find out more and to APPLY, please visit www.nttcconference.com