School Programs
The Watershed Institute offers programs aligned with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Science, as well as traditional inquiry and nature-discovery programs. Explore scientific inquiry and discovery on our 950-acre Watershed Reserve and in our LEED Platinum–certified Watershed Center. We offer field trips, in-school programs, professional development for teachers, and a selection of free, ready-to-use lesson plans.
Full-Day and Multi-Day NJSLS – Science Programs
Students think and work like scientists while they engage in the three dimensions of science learning – science and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts and disciplinary core ideas. Our NJSLS – Science programs promote critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills. The topics range from examining human impacts on the environment and constructing scientific models, to engineering solutions to real-world problems.
Our Climate Change education programs help teachers meet the NJ climate standards. New Jersey became the first state in the nation to include climate change across content areas. These standards are designed to prepare students to understand how and why climate change happens, the impact it has on our local and global communities, and to act in informed and sustainable ways. Our innovative programs use best practices to include authentic learning experiences and promote action.
We also offer traditional, nature-based field experiences for schools. Our staff is available for consultation and is eager to help your students learn and develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world
Natural Connections
Grade k
1/2 day program
K-ESS3-1. Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants or animals (including humans) and the places they live.
Nature's Copycats
grade 1
full day program
1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
Erosion Erasers
grade 2
full day program
2-ESS2-1. Compare multiple solutions designed to slow or prevent wind or water from changing the shape of the land.
Habitat Survivors
grade 3
full day program
3-LS4-3. Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
Stormwater Solutions
grade 4
ful day program
4-ESS3-2. Generate and compare multiple solutions to reduce the impacts of natural Earth processes on humans.
Eco Spheres
grade 5
full day program
5-ESS2-1. Develop a model using an example to describe ways the geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and/or atmosphere interact.
Build A Better School
middle school grades
long-term project
MS-LS2-5 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics
MS-ESS3-3 Earth and Human Activity
MS-ETS1-1 Engineering Design
Dam Engineers
middle school grades
full-day program
MS-LS-2.4 Construct an argument supported by empirical evidence that changes to physical or biological components of an ecosystem affect populations.
MS-ESS3.3 Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment
MS-LS2.5 Evaluate competing design solutions for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services.
MS-ETS1.1 Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relative scientific principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment that may limit possible solutions.
MS-ETS1.2 Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
Monarchs and Migration
grades 1-8
Why do some animals migrate? Can a butterfly really fly all the way to Mexico? Learn about monarch migration and conservation efforts. Available in September only.
Butterfly Magic
prek-k
1/2 day program
Enjoy a butterfly story, song and craft as we learn about these amazing creatures! Step into the Kate Gorrie Butterfly House for a peek at butterfly magic. Available May-September.
Animals and Habitats
prek-grade 12
1/2 day program
Students discover different habitats and evidence of a variety of animals at the Watershed Reserve. They will investigate how animals meet their basic needs, including where they live and what they eat. Students will learn how to identify animal tracks, feathers, fur, scat and other signs left by local wildlife. Available year-round.
Insect Safari
grades k-12
1/2 day program
During our safari we will explore some of the myths, mysteries and crucial importance of our insect neighbors. The program includes games, a hike and an insect search. Secondary students will learn about human attempts to control insect populations and the effects of those efforts upon the environment. Available mid-May through early October.
Maple Sugaring
grades k-12
1/2 day program
Discover the magic and science of one of nature’s most tasty treats – maple syrup! Learn how the trees are tapped and take part in a maple syrup taste test. Available only in February and March.
Climate, Health and Justice
grade 9-12
1/2 day program
Will the next big public health crisis result from climate change? Climate Change affects the health of everyone, and some populations suffer more than others. Learn how our changing climate is increasing vector borne and water borne disease, heat related illnesses, and adding to the mental health crisis.
The Climate Challenge
grades 5-12
1/2 day program
The Climate Challenge, an active, experiential learning game, teaches students to navigate our changing world. The game can be set up indoors or outdoors, with the field of play ranging from a classroom to a giant field or woodland trail.
Downstream: A Watershed Game
grades 5-12
1 hour
Bring our Teacher-Naturalists to your school! This play-oriented, outdoor activity shows various factors that affect water quality as a stream moves through the landscape. After an introduction, the students will roll a giant die and then imagine their travels downstream on one of three waterways (rural, suburban, and urban). As they flow through the landscape, they will encounter natural and human elements that alter their water quality. The action concludes with all participants flowing into the same lake. Students will examine how the landscape influences water quality and will also discuss and explore strategies for maintaining and improving water quality. Available year round, requires a large, open area (inside or outside).
StreamWatch Schools
StreamWatch Schools engage K-12 students in water quality monitoring, from the field to the classroom. This includes chemical testing, bioassessments with benthic macroinvertebrates, visual data collection and record-keeping, data entry into a digital platform to share results with other schools, as well as data analysis, interpretation, and sharing.
