Now accepting new schools to our waitlist for 2024/2025
ELF (Environmental Learning for the Future) Science Program
Kindergarten - Grade 5
The Environmental Learning for the Future (ELF) Science program addresses the current needs of teachers, schools, and the NGSS. The program partners with teachers to cultivate scientific literacy and excite students to engage with the world as scientists.
The ELF Science Program focuses on providing teachers with resources and the support needed to implement engaging, hands-on science lessons aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards.
The ELF Science Program continues VINS’ tradition of high quality, place-based environmental education. It cultivates a deeper understanding of science and the environment while affirming the agency students have to positively impact their home and the world through scientific and environmental action.
Program Package
ELF Science partners with teachers, cultivates scientific literacy, and excites students to engage with the world as scientists and engineers.
The classroom teacher and the VINS Science Educator collaborate to plan lessons that align with the curriculum and address the Next Generation Science Standards. The VINS Science Educator will then teach three lessons in partnership with the classroom teacher. Science lessons take students outside and into nature as much as possible.
ELF Science Program includes:
Program Fee: $475 (includes a teacher meeting and 3 lessons), plus $1.25 per mile to cover travel expenses and the educator’s time. Scholarships are available. Please email Hannah, Director of School Programs and Teacher Professional Development if you need financial assistance or Eleanor, Lead School Programs, for any other questions.
This program may be further customized based on the needs of the teacher.
Additional Options include:
Science, Engineering, and Nature Explorations for Students
Each VINS Science Educator has a Master of Education degree, is a Highly Qualified Teacher, and holds a teaching license in Vermont and New Hampshire.