K-12 Programs
Tucked into the hills of Northwest Connecticut, Great Mountain Forest is a living laboratory where students can explore, question, and connect with the natural world. Through immersive, seamlessly aligned NGSS standards, we invite educators to bring learning to life in a setting rich with ecological and geological wonder.
Our field-based programs—available as half-day or full-day experiences—transform the forest into an active classroom where students investigate real-world science through hands-on exploration. Each experience is designed to foster observation, curiosity, and critical thinking, while supporting students in constructing scientific explanations using Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (CER). Whether studying ecosystems, geology, tree biology, wildlife, or seasonal cycles, students engage deeply with the landscape and leave with a stronger understanding of both science and stewardship.
Led by experienced educators who believe in the power of inquiry and environmental stewardship, our programs offer an unforgettable opportunity for students to learn by doing—guided by the rhythms and stories of the forest itself.
All modules are designed for middle school audiences, but can be adapted and customized for grade levels K-12 or multi-age groups. We will work closely with each district and its educators to emphasize and prioritize curricular goals, partnering to ensure that our field trips are seamlessly aligned with classroom learning.
Whispers of the Forest- Exploring the Ecology of Great Mountain Forest
Most Prevalent Themes:
- Tree Identification & Adaptations MS-LS1-4
- Forest Structure & Layers MS-LS2-2
- Biotic–Abiotic Interactions MS-LS2-1
- Energy Flow & Matter Cycling MS-LS2-3
- Succession, Disturbance & Biodiversity MS-LS2-4
Duration:
2 ½ hours
Wildlife Trackers- Surveying Biodiversity in GMF
Most Prevalent Themes:
- Analyzing Ecosystem Interactions MS-LS2-2
- Understanding Biodiversity and Habitat Health MS-LS2-1
- Studying Adaptations and Survival Strategies MS-LS1-4
- Applying Scientific Practices Through CER Science & Engineering Practices (SEP)
- Exploring Human Impact and Conservation MS-LS2-5
Duration:
2 ½ hours
Seeing the Forest Through the Trees- A Dendrology Adventure
Most Prevalent Themes:
- Tree Identification & Adaptations – MS-LS1-4
- Forest Health & Disturbance – MS-LS2-1
- Tree Anatomy & Environmental History – MS-LS1-4
- Carbon Storage & Forest Products – MS-ESS3-3
- Sustainable Forest Management & Stewardship – MS-ESS3-3
Duration:
2 ½ hours
Unearthing the Past: A Geological Quest in Great Mountain Forest
Most Prevalent Themes:
- Geologic Time & Rock Formation – MS-ESS1-4
- Rock Cycle & Earth’s Material Cycling – MS-ESS2-1
- Glacial Processes & Landscape Change – MS-ESS2-2
- Soils as Links Between Geology & Ecology – MS-ESS2-1, MS-ESS2-2
- Natural Resources & Human History – MS-ESS3-1
Duration:
5 hours
Sap to Syrup- The Sweet Science of Maple Magic
Most Prevalent Themes:
- Science of Tree Physiology and Sap Flow- MS-LS1-1
- History and Cultural Traditions of Maple Sugaring- MS-ETS1-3
- Hands-on STEM Investigation and Critical Thinking- MS-ESS2-6
- Sustainability and Forest Management- MS-LS2-4
- Connection Between Nature, Culture, and Community- MS-LS1-5
Duration:
2 ½ hours
Program Pricing & Registration
The cost for a group of 20 students is as follows:
- half-day (2 ½ hours) field program – $250
- full day (5 hours) – $400
For groups larger than 20, there is an additional charge of $15 per student.
Groups with more than 25 students will be divided and registered as two programs, each billed at the regular rate. We want all students to have the opportunity to participate. If program costs are a barrier, please contact our office about financial assistance.
All programs begin at Great Mountain Forest’s East Gate, 201 Windrow Road, Norfolk, CT. Invoices are sent after scheduling.
To register, please complete the online form here: GMF K-12 Field Program Registration – Google Forms For questions about registration or to discuss curriculum options, call us at 860.824.8188 or email vicki@greatmountainforest.org
