Guided School Program
Discovery and wonderment abound in small-group, hands-on guided lessons at Five Rivers. Exploration of fields, forests, ponds or streams bring out the child and scientist in all of us, compelling us to observe closely, share readily and discuss passionately. Trained staff and volunteers employ the scientific method to facilitate data collection, spur thought and build mindfulness for the environment.
Beginning in 1978, the Guided School Program (GSP) has grown to provide a wide variety of hands-on outdoor lessons aligned with NYS Learning Standards. Guided lessons are instructed by Friends of Five Rivers staff, volunteers and interns who have been trained in environmental education content, methods and specific learning outcomes. GSP is funded by Friends of Five Rivers, a nonprofit that supports environmental education at NYS Five Rivers Environmental Education Center.
Teachers' GSP Experience
“My students really enjoyed collecting the aquatic creatures. Only one out of my 24 students had ever been near a stream.”
“The instructor did a great job! She even did a huge adaptation for our blind student. The instructor had this student be an assistant instructor.”
“On this trip I saw students in awe over the sound of silence and small moments that they shared with the outdoors. I feel these moments are what help kindle a respect for nature and how the environment is home to all of us, not just humankind.”
“I thought the lesson and presentation of the lesson was phenomenal! The intro leading into looking for Animal Signs they most connected with because they were comfortable and felt successful. Being near the water was engaging!”
CONTACT US
56 Game Farm Rd., Delmar, NY 12054
Phone: (518) 475-0295
Fax: (518) 475-0293
Charitable Tax ID# 23-7309978