Schoolyard Investigations
Explore, Discover, Connect –Right in Your Own Schoolyard!
Applications for Spring
Schoolyard Investigations Trips are Open!
Schoolyard Investigations brings the wonders of nature directly to your school! With engaging, hands-on programs led by Ijams Nature Center naturalists, students will dive into the ecosystems in their own schoolyard, fostering a deeper connection to the environment around them. This immersive, interactive experience encourages curiosity, discovery, and a lasting appreciation for nature.
Program Highlights
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Interactive Nature Activities: Explore local flora and fauna, learn about habitats, investigate soil, water, and plant life, and uncover the unique story of your schoolyard ecosystem.
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Customized for K-12 Learning Standards: Aligned with Tennessee Academic Standards, each session is tailored to engage students through activities suited to their age group.
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Program Details
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Location: Your school campus
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Duration: 9:30 am – 11:30 am
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Group Requirements:
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Minimum group size: 15 students
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Maximum group size: 45 students
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Cost: $8 per student (includes all materials and activities)
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Travel Fee:
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Free for schools within 15 miles of Ijams Nature Center.
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$30 for schools located 15–30 miles away.
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We do not travel to schools more than 30 miles from Ijams Nature Center.
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Scholarship Funding: Available for qualifying Title I and Community Schools on a first come first serve basis.
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Discover the hidden wonders of your own backyard with Schoolyard Investigations – inspiring curiosity, conservation, and a connection to nature!
SCHEDULING Schoolyard Investigations
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Ijams schedules Schoolyard Investigations and field trip requests by Google form on a first-come, first-served basis. Ijams can accommodate groups between 15-45 students on some Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
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If you have any questions, please contact Kylie Preston at fieldtrips@ijams.org or +1865-577-4717, ext. 1012.
FIELD TRIP AND OUTREACH SCHOLARSHIPS
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Ijams has funding available for scholarships and transportation for schools that qualify. There also are other ways for educators to request funding for field trips, transportation, and outreach programs. The following document offers suggestions and includes a sample letter. ​
