Denali Science School
Denali Science School brings Alaskan fifth and sixth-grade classes to Denali National Park and Preserve for overnight field trips. During these three-day programs, students are immersed in Denali's natural wonders through hands-on activities, hikes, and journeys into the park. Denali Science School is instructed by skilled National Park Service and Alaska Geographic educators who work with the teachers to enhance each school's curricula.
Denali Science School is free other than transportation and on-site food costs. The three-day programs are offered from September through the beginning of October. Teachers are required to submit a
registration form to apply for this opportunity.
Details
- Who: All fifth and sixth-grade teachers in Alaska are invited to register for Denali Science School. A maximum of 30 students and 6 chaperones (teachers included) can be accommodated per session.
- When: September through the beginning of October. Two sessions are offered per week – Session I is from Monday through Wednesday and Session II is from Wednesday through Friday.
- Instruction and Supervision: Denali park rangers and Alaska Geographic educators provide most instruction and logistical support while teachers and chaperones are largely responsible for student's behavioral conduct and overnight needs. Session itineraries include a visit to the park's dog sled kennels, a field trip into the park, and day and evening science and team-building activities. For more information concerning activities, menu, what to pack, and rules and guidelines, please refer to the teacher information packet, teacher activity guide (includes pre and post activities), parent guide, and chaperone expectations.
- Registration: Teachers may submit registration forms by email, fax, or mail from March 1, 2018 through April 4, 2018. In the form, please specify ALL dates available. Preference is given to schools that have not attended the previous year and then a lottery system will be used to select groups for the available dates.
- Cost: The school pays for bus transportation to, from, and in the park, as well as on-site food services. All other costs (instruction, equipment, and accommodations) are covered by the Murie Science and Learning Center. Food is served in the Murie Dining Hall directly adjacent to the MSLC and includes hot dinners both evenings and breakfasts both mornings, and a bag lunch on days two and three. The cost of food is approximately $1,800 for a group of 35 for the whole trip.
- Financial aid to help cover meals or transportation may be available for schools in need. Please indicate in the comments section on your registration form if you would like to discuss this possibility.
- Housing: Groups bring sleeping bags and mats and sleep in the MSLC classrooms. Bathrooms and sinks are available in the building but no showers.
- Sponsorship: Denali Science School is made possible thanks to the partnership between Alaska Geographic and National Park Service through the Murie Science and Learning Center.
