The Mississippi River offers teachers a perfect opportunity to link subject matter across the entire curriculum – science, history, cultures, geography, reading, writing, art, music, computer learning, and more.

Teacher-Ranger-Teacher Summer Employment Positions
Put on the National Park Service's ranger uniform and work for the National Park Service this summer at the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MISS). Teachers will work side by side with National Park Service (NPS) staff for eight weeks this summer along the Mississippi River. In the fall, bring your experience back to the classroom to share with your students.
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The Urban Wilderness Canoe Adventures
The Urban Wilderness Canoe Adventures (UWCA) is an outdoor canoe program focused on getting Twin Cities youth on the Mississippi River. Each UWCA trip provides students an opportunity to experience a different, special section of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. The UWCA is a partner program between Wilderness Inquiry, Mississippi River Fund, and the National Park Service.
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Big River Journey
The Big River Journey is a great way for students to learn more about the Mississippi River. The award-winning program offers an integration of river and classroom experiences that connect 4th-6th grade students with the science and heritage of the Mississippi River and promote stewardship. See video (6 mins).

Journey to the Falls
Journey to the Falls (JTF) is an integration of river and classroom experiences featuring historical and literacy activities. JTF connects students with the history and resources of St. Anthony Falls and the Mississippi River in the Minneapolis area. JTF culminates with a riverboat excursion on the Mississippi featuring hands-on learning stations, journaling, and visual literacy activities. See video (3 mins).
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Big River Art Contest
The annual Big River Art Contest engages students in the science, heritage and stewardship of the Mississippi River through the practice of art. Art is entered in any one of four categories, two of which require field trip attendance. Prizes are awarded to both the winning students and their teachers and winning artwork is displayed at the Mississippi River Visitor Center, other locations, and in galleries on our website!
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School Group Programs at the Mississippi River Visitor Center
We offer a variety of formal educational programs at the Mississippi River Visitor Center focused towards school students. Check our listing of programs to see what might be of interest.