Kindergarten Classes Visit Bear Mountain State Park

This spring, the Office of Curriculum and Instruction was able to secure $75,000 from Connect-Kids-to-Parks Field Trip Grants, which will be used specifically to support grade-level trips to New York State Parks!

The New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Connect-Kids-to-Parks Field Trip Grants reimburse applicant schools for expenses, such as transportation and entrance fees, to participate in ranger-led tours at state parks. K-5 Instructional Literacy Coach Kristy Nadler applied for grants after matching local park ranger-led programs with grade-level curriculum for kindergarten, first grade, fourth and fifth grade classes. “These experiences are such a valuable part of our students’ learning—getting outdoors, exploring our local environment, and connecting with nature brings classroom lessons to life in meaningful ways,” said Nadler. 

William O. Schaefer Elementary School kindergarteners and first graders have begun their trips to the Bear Mountain State Park Trailside Museums and Zoo to learn about animals native to New York State and some of our local history. “State parks like Bear Mountain not only offer beautiful and educational outdoor spaces but also house facilities like the Bear Mountain Zoo, which is especially impactful for our students,” explained Nadler. “The zoo focuses on local wildlife and plays an important role in rescuing and rehabilitating injured animals from the area—it's a powerful way for kids to see conservation efforts in action.”

Stay tuned for continued coverage of these fun and educational field trips as Cottage Lane Elementary School students travel to historic sites including George Washington Headquarters!