For Teachers

NPS/Kathy Zelenka

Any field trip should include time for unstructured creative play!

Discovering the Park with Children

The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity.

Albert Einstein

The resources of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve can help bring classroom studies alive.

We offer:

• Ranger-led education programs in the park and preserve.
• Programs we can bring to your classroom this fall or winter. All are aligned with Colorado content standards including science, history, geography, and reading.
• Nature and Science Web Pages with information and animations about Great Sand Dunes geology, hydrology, dune types, ecosystems, animals, plants, and more.
• Great Sand Dunes Curriculum Materials available through
  Hands on the Land
• Field trip guidelines for chaperones and teachers.
• Ambassadors for Wilderness, a summer program for local students in grades 7-11.
• Hands-on, interactive exhibits and a 20-minute film at the Visitor Center.

Download the Great Sand Dunes Education Programs Flyer for a list of available programs and formats.

For more information, email the Education Ranger or call 719-378-6344.

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If your students produce exceptional writing or artwork following your visit, ask the Education Specialist about opportunities to have their work posted on the National Park Service LEARN web site or the Hands on the Land network.

NPS WebRangers is an on-line opportunity for children six and up to become a Junior Ranger even if they are not able to visit a National Park Service area.

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Education Specialist with children on a field trip

NPS Photo