edefine theClaSSroom - Ecology Project International › assets › docs › EPI-2016Catalog.pdf · teacher at Sussex School in Missoula, MT, where he’s expanding and improving

science & cultural exchange field programs 1

2016 Student travel Guide

redefineClaSSroomthe

www.ecologyproject.org • 406.721.8784 • [email protected] science & cultural exchange field programs2

Teachers, Students, and Parents,

Welcome to the world of EPI - we’re so glad you’re here. In our world, science is an immersive experience. We believe that learning through hands-on interaction is an incredible force. That when you’ve seen a leatherback sea turtle digging its nest with your own eyes, its value and richness in our world become that much clearer. When you feel the warm Baja sand underfoot after a snorkeling census measuring the health of one of Earth’s most bio-diverse seas, you understand that change is created one person at a time. Our

programs are designed to open the world to our participants, and we’re thrilled to be celebrating 15 years of connecting students with eye-opening and inspiring field experiences.

Field science, travel, and cultural immersion - with these EPI foundations in mind, we’ve added to our program offerings. You can now explore Yellowstone’s unparalleled ecosystem in winter or summer, or visit one of two amazing aquatic sites on the Baja Peninsula. I hope you’ll join us in the field - we can’t wait to work with you.

-Scott PankratzExecutive Director & Co-Founder

inSide your Guide

new!

Ecology Project International (EPI) is a non-profit that delivers place-based, field education programs partnering local experts with high school students to address critical conservation issues. EPI’s mission is simple, yet profound: to improve and inspire science education and conservation efforts worldwide through field-based student-scientist partnerships. You can learn more about how we support underserved students in all our programs at ecologyproject.org/support_us.

about ePiEPI Fast Facts............................ 3The EPI Advantage..................... 4Meet your Instructors................ 5

CoSta riCa

Up Close with Sea Turtles.......... 6-7

belizeFrom Coral Reef to Mayan Rainforest 8-9

GalaPaGoS iSlandS

Nature’s Finest Laboratory........ 10-11

bajaOn-shore and Under the Water... 12-13

yellowStoneSummer: Home on the Range..... 14-15

Winter: Following Tracks........... 16-17

moreFor Students ............................. 18-19Research with a Purpose............ 21Solo Student Travel.................... 22

EPI on the Web.......................... 23For Teachers.............................. 24-25Scholarships & Financial Aid..... 26Take the Next Steps................... 27Frequently Asked Questions....... 27

science & cultural exchange field programsSCienCe & Cultural exChanGe field ProGramS 3

* Airfare not included in Yellowstone programs. Contact us for all-inclusive price.

EPI FAST FACTS

ProGram tuition CourSe lenGth dateS GrouP Size

Costa Rica Sea Turtle Ecology Program $3,295 9 days March - July 7-20

Belize Marine Ecology Program $3,995 9 days January - July 7-16

Galapagos Island Ecology Program $5,795 12 days March - July 7-18

Baja Island Ecology Program $3,295 9 days Feb.-Apr. & Oct.-Dec. 7-16

Yellowstone Wildlife Ecology Program $1,895* 9 days June - August 7-15

Yellowstone Winter Ecology Program $1,995* 9 days Jan. - March 7-15

Our partnership model allows us to work closely with research organizations to give our students behind-the-scenes access to animals, landscapes, and protected areas that are often inaccessible to the general public.

As a mission-based non-profit organization, we value service, education, and diversity over income. The proceeds from your course costs allow us to grow our

impact in U.S. and international communities.

Beyond research, participants help

conservation efforts

by preserving endangered species and restoring threatened ecosystems through service projects. EPI’s participants hail from 38 states and 11 countries.

EPI has worked with over 18,000 participants since 2000. Each EPI studenttakes an active role collecting data to be

used by professional researchers in major science and conservation efforts.

science & cultural exchange field programswww.ecologyproject.org • 406.721.8784 • [email protected]

Online Support From planning to outreach, all the way to packing, our website and online support

system make it easy for teachers and participants to prepare.

Commitment to Local People & Places Our programs offer unique

educational experiences to students living near our research sites, and we include cultural exchange as a

key aspect of visiting courses.

All-Inclusive Tuition Our international course prices are designed to include

everything - your airfare, food, lodging, transport, snacks, educational materials, tips, taxes, and an

EPI T-shirt. Our up-front approach lets you and your students focus on the course content.

Pre-Course Prep Well before you leave for the field, you’ll have all the info you

need - your participant handbook, packing list, and ample supporting resources, including videos,

articles, and book recommendations.

Post-Course Opportunities Many of our students are inspired to do more

for their local communities when they return from their EPI course, and EPI wants to help make

that happen. EPI offers $1,500 in funding toward student-led projects through the Leadership Award

program. Contact us to learn more: [email protected].

Student Safety Our number one priority, and we take it very seriously. EPI maintains a

comprehensive risk management plan that engages participants, staff, and partners long before students ever set

foot into the field. Our instructors are certified Wilderness First Responders who have the training and skills necessary

to manage illness and injury in remote settings like the ones in which we operate.

At all times when students are in the field, EPI staff can be reached via a 24-hour emergency cel l phone, and should your

family need to communicate something to your student, we are here to help facilitate that communication.

THE EPI ADVANTAGE

mailto:info%40ecologyproject.org?subject=Leadership%20Award


Juan Carlos ZunigaMS: University of Jyväskylä Finland -

Sustainable Management of Inland Aquatic Resources

Juan Carlos is a veteran EPI instructor with field experience in Costa Rica, Mexico, and Belize. Originally from San Josè, Costa Rica, his academic background includes biological studies and research at home and in Finland. Beyond his role as instructor, Juan Carlos is the co-author of upcoming research on the ecologically-sensitive

Humedal Nacional, Costa Rica’s Pacific mangrove ecosystem. A passion for travel has taken him to over 30 countries on

four continents, where he’s spent time in the outdoors hiking, snorkeling, and diving. His current project? Constructing an

organic fruit orchard.

Our instructors are scientists,educators, naturalists, and communicators. Their level of experience and enthusiasm is

what sets EPI apart. Find bios for all our instructors on our website.

Jon LinchBS - Wildlife Biology, BA - Biology/Education -

University of Montana

A transplant from Southern California, Jon moved to Montana in 2005 to pursue a career in wildlife biology.

After 9 years of fieldwork across Montana, including studies on

wolf predation conducted inside Yellowstone, Jon decided that teaching was his true passion and completed the teaching program at the University of Montana. Outside the field season, he works as the middle school science teacher at Sussex School in Missoula, MT, where he’s expanding and improving the curriculum. Outside of work, Jon enjoys running, rugby, hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing; but most of all, Jon loves visiting his favorite place on earth…Yellowstone National Park.

Olivia Angel lBS: Marine Biology- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur

Born in California, Olivia grew up in Loreto, Baja California Sur. With her mom working as a kayak and mule tour guide

and her dad as a sailing instructor, Olivia’s childhood featured nature, camping, and conservation in large quantities. As a local

participant, she traveled with EPI twice, then joined the crew as an intern. Her outdoor experience continued to grow through stints in the U.S. and Mexico, before she decided to make an impact in the world through environmental education, informing her students about the world they

live in and how they can help protect it. Olivia recently completed the Mula Mil, a 91-day mule ride up the entire length of the Baja Peninsula.

Jaen Nieto AmetMS, Marine Biology and Ecology - University of Aix-Marseille, France

A Franco-Mexican born in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, Jaen’s past field assignments helped bridge the gap between local communities and ongoing research projects in Mexico’s Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and led her to live and work in France, Costa Rica, Portugal, Italy, Mexico, and now Belize. A woman of many talents, Jaen speaks five languages and

is also qualified as a Dive Master, Kundalini Yoga Instructor, and Reflexology therapist.

Francisco LasoMSc: Ecology and Evolution -Rijksuniversiteit Groningen/Université Montpelier II

Born and raised in Ecuador, Francisco was fascinated by the study of life from an early age. He is passionate about environmental education,

food justice, and agroecology. Francisco has field and research experience in several tropical environments, including Amazonian rainforests, African savannas, and island ecosystems. Francisco was part of the field research team of Project Pinta, when the Galapagos National Park reintroduced 39 adult tortoises to the island of Pinta to restore their role as ecosystem engineers. When not in a tent in some remote location, Francisco can probably be found in a garden or in a kitchen.

MEET YOUR INSTRUCTORS


Sea turtle eColoGy ProGram

COSTA RICAThe beach is dark – it rolls out in front of you. You take careful steps forward, keeping your eyes on the water for signs. A strip of darkened sand shows what might have been here an hour ago – too late. You keep walking with your group, until you see it – a lumbering shape emerging from the water. It’s so dark you can only see it by looking out of the corner of your eye, but it’s coming closer. The mother leatherback turtle powers herself up the beach. You’re there to be a witness, a researcher, and a guardian, and your work is just getting started.

uP CloSe with Sea turtleS

in SearCh of leatherbaCkS what you’ll do the rainforeSt

Nights on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast offers plenty of time on dark sandy beaches, watching for signs from the rolling ocean. This small country is home to an outsized portion of the world’s species, and your research subject, the leatherback sea turtle, is a grand example.

EPI’s program offers you an amazing opportunity to engage with Costa Rica’s immense biodiversity, both on the coast and in the rainforest. While at our sea turtle reserve, EPI groups monitor the beach, guided by trained researchers. You’ll collect data on turtle numbers, size, and nesting locations, for use in developing your field-based research project.

Our tropical reserves are home to howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, iguanas, leafcutter ants, dart frogs, and an uncountable number of other species. Your guides will engage you with the natural history of this spectacular place.


“Where does the program take place?”You’ll fly in and out of San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital. Chartered buses will take you to the turtle reserve, located south of Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast. You’ll also visit local communities and rainforest preserves.

“What are the accommodations like?”For most of your course, you’ll stay in rustic, dormitory-style cabins that are single-gender. Your first and last nights will be in a hotel near San Jose.

“Are there longer course options?”Interested in our 12-day course or our pilot Atlantic-to-Pacific 18-day Research Expedition in Costa Rica? Get in touch: [email protected].

The most amazing opportunity I had while in Costa Rica was holding a leatherback turtle’s flipper while she laid her eggs. Watching a turtle with a shell the size of you is unbelievable in itself, but being able to help it in one of its most natural biological processes is indescribable. This is a memory I will cherish forever.

-costa rica participant, 2014

“ “

*airfare included

tuition CourSe lenGth dateS GrouP Size

$3,295* 9 days March - July 7-20

FAQS ProGram hiGhliGhtS

Turtle Reserve

Rainforest Preserve

Osa Peninsula

Go raftinG throuGh a tropical forest

photoGraph monkeys, sloths, birds, and other native wildlife

work side-by-side with researchers to protect a critically endanGered species


In Belize, you’ll see the world from a dolphin’s-eye view. In the tangle of low islands and turquoise waters off the mainland coast, researchers are working to study and protect this delicate ecosystem for the species that depend on it. You’ll join them via boat to study dolphin pods before heading inland to explore ancient Mayan culture and tropical ecology in the Belizean rainforest.

marine eColoGy ProGram

B E L I Z Efrom Coral reef to mayan rainforeSt

atollS and rainforeStS what you’ll do unique to belize

Turneffe Atoll is a quick boat ride from Belize City, your port of arrival. You’ll spend four days by the sea, conducting research focused on dolphins. Dozens of bird species and tropical fauna will surround you on land, but the real diversity is under the water, where you’ll observe coral reef ecosystems and over 500 species of tropical fish.

Under the guidance of a research team from the Oceanic Society, you’ll travel to dolphin hotspots and collect data from the boat. From behavioral studies to photo identification of individual dolphins, your research will help determine aquatic trends, and you’ll learn about this unique environment that knits together marshland, reefs, mangroves, and sea grass beds.

Belize’s ties to its ancient Mayan culture are enduring, and you’ll explore them through cultural visits around San Ignacio, deep in the inland rainforest - try your hand at making corn tortillas and chocolate the traditional Mayan way! At Cockscomb National Wildlife Sanctuary, researchers share their work with jaguars with you, and you’ll experience the jungle at night.


raft the Pacuare River

The course was incredible! Searching for lionfish, studying dolphins, exploring Mayan ruins, and learning about the rainforest - it was fun every step of the way. I see the world with a new, broader perspective and I know I can do something. I feel empowered.

- Belize participant, 2014

“What’s the language in Belize?”English is the official language, but many Belizeans also speak Spanish, Kriol, and other traditional Mayan languages.

“How about the climate?”Tropical Belize experiences sun and high temperatures, but it can also be rainy (especially in June and July). Be sure to pack your rain gear, just in case.

“How will we get around?”Boats and private buses. You’ll be amazed how many different shades of blue you can see on the short ride to Turneffe Atoll!

“ “

*airfare included


$3,995* 9 days January - July 7-16

FAQSProGram hiGhliGhtS

monitor bottlenosedolphins

track wild jaGuars and monitor tropical birds at a private reserve

explore the belizeanrainforest


The Galapagos archipelago is your living laboratory! The highlands and the coasts are a naturalist’s dream, with unique species behind every rocky outcrop. However, due to a burgeoning human population and high demands from tourism, these islands face serious challenges. In an exclusive partnership with the Galapagos National Park, you’ll work to help protect this fragile ecosystem and get a behind-the-scenes look at daily life and nature in this far-flung Eden.

iSland eColoGy ProGram

nature’S fineSt laboratory

leGendS Come to life what you’ll do beyond fieldwork

What can we write about this world-renowned archipelago off Ecuador’s coast? These dramatic is lands and their protected waters are home to fascinating birds, abundant wildlife, active v o l c a n o s , a n d e m b l e m a t i c species like Darwin’s finches and your research subject, the giant tortoise.

EPI is the only educational organization partnering with the Galapagos National Park Service. Guided by Galapagos Park rangers, you’ll enter limited-access areas to monitor tortoises at all stages of their development - in hatcheries, nurseries, and in the wild interior highlands.

After your fieldwork, you’ll meet a local school group and share your experiences before you head to the outlying islands for day trips. Snorkel, hike, and view wildlife on land and under the waters of the marine reserve.

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS


“Where will we go?”After flying into Quito and spending a night on the mainland, you’ll fly to the Galapagos for the duration of your course.

“Do people live on the islands?”Yes - there are over 30,000 residents, distributed between five main islands. You’ll meet some of them on course!

“Will we be scuba-diving on course?”No, but you’ll have many opportunities to enjoy some of the world’s best snorkeling throughout the Galapagos archipelago.

“Are there shorter course options?”Yes! Ask us about our 9-day program: [email protected].

It was an unforgettable experience that takes you beyond what being a tourist can ever do. The immersion into the culture and science provided me with a new perspective on what conservation is really about.

-galapagos participant, 2014

FAQS“

*airfare included


$5,795* 12 days March - July 7-18

observe animals foundnowhere else on earth

explore secluded waters& islands

conduct hands-on research with wild Giant tortoises alonGside national park ranGers

Quito

ProGram hiGhliGhtS

”

mailto:info%40ecologyproject.org?subject=Galapagos%20Program%20Options


BAJA ISLANDSFrom your research station on the rocky beach, you can see your domain. You’ll sink beneath clear blue waters, monitoring the health and changes in the reef below, while the parched red cliffs behind you beg to be explored. For a few days, this island teeming with life is your home and your research station – prepare for a week of discovery and delight.

iSland eColoGy ProGram

on Shore and under water

iSland life what you’ll do baCk on land

The Sea of Cortez is your classroom for nine incredible days. A World Heritage Site home to 39% of the planet’s marine mammal species, Cortez is also home to the spectacular Espiritu Santo Island, where the pace of life slows and yet comes alive if you’re looking in the right places.

Espiritu Santo is a wild protected island in the Sea of Cortez, a short boat ride from our La Paz campus. The unique ecology and bounty of the surrounding waters are your focus area. The island’s red rock cliffs and stunning beaches play backdrop to your underwater explorations - you’ll collect data on echinoderm species and develop a field-based research project.

Though it’s hard to leave the island life behind, thankfully Baja’s mainland is just as enchanting. You’ll meet Mexican program participants, then head inland to the Sierra de la Laguna, the rocky spine of the peninsula, home to dry forests and hidden waterfalls.


“Do we need wetsuits?”If they’re necessary, EPI will provide them. But the water is typically warm enough that they’re not needed.

“What are the accommodations like?”Your first and last nights are typically on EPI’s campus in La Paz, with dorm-style rooms and running water. Nights on the island are spent in tents on the beach with camping toilets, but no showers or running water. The only thing better than the view is the food!

This was a trip I will never forget. It has changed me for the better and I feel recharged and ready for anything.

- Baja participant, 2013

ProGram hiGhliGhtS“ “

*airfare included


$3,295* 9 days Feb.-Apr. & Oct.-Dec. 7-16

FAQS

snorkel with sea lions,sea stars, & tropical fish

explore marine diversityin the sea of cortez

camp on a pristinebeach under the stars


It’s no wonder that America’s tradition of conservation grew up in this ecosystem, with its thermal features, rich wildlife, and abundance of natural wonders. Today, countless species continue to find a refuge here, in the face of natural and man-made challenges. You’ll learn how human-wildlife interactions continue to shape the landscape, and with EPI, you’ll gain an insider’s view.

wildlife eColoGy ProGram

YELLOWSTONE SUMMERhome on the ranGe

Sky hiGh adventure what you’ll do foCuS on wildlife

At an average height of 8,000 feet above sea level, Yellowstone’s high-altitude plateau is a unique and extraordinary ecosystem. As soon as you arrive, you’ll understand why it inspired our national parks. The landscape’s singular beauty, abundance of wildlife, and fascinating thermal features combine to make for an unparalleled adventure.

In this ideal setting for wildlife immersion, you’ll team with bison and bear researchers. On-trail and off, your instructors will guide you through wild surroundings and introduce you to the forces that shape it. By the end of the course, you’ll have a strong understanding of the complex conservation issues facing the region.

EPI’s partnership with the National Park Service allows you a unique viewpoint on the park’s efforts to monitor and protect wildlife species. From wolf experts to your core research on bison and bears, those who know this plateau best will share their knowledge with you as you seek out your own observations.


Montana

WyomingIdaho

raft the Pacuare River

“Where does the program take place?”Students arrive and depart from Bozeman, Montana, and most of the course takes place in and around Yellowstone National Park.

“What are the accommodations like?”We’ll be tent camping under the stars! You’ll have drinking water, but no running water or electricity. However, camping in Big Sky country likely means more rainbows and unbelievable sunsets than you’ve seen anywhere else.

“What is Montana summer weather like?”Generally, the weather is very pleasant, with hot temperatures during the day and colder temperatures at night. The weather can also be unpredictable: snow is possible and July, and August days can hit 100 degrees.

Before this trip, I had always had this urge to turn my love of nature into a career. After the Yellowstone EPI course, it just clicked.

- yellowstone participant, 2015

YELLOWSTONE SUMMER“ “

*airfare not included


$1,895* 9 days June - August 7-15

Yellowstone

National Park

Yellowstone

National Park

FAQS

Survey wildlife - from

biSon to wolveS

raft the inCredible

yellowStone river

exPlore yellowStone’S

one-of-a-kind eCoSyStem

ProGram hiGhliGhtS


On the high-elevation plateau of Yellowstone, winter comes early and lingers on the ground. Herds of bison take advantage of open thermal pools while the park’s predators prepare their own strategies. You’ll study it all, on foot and by snowshoe, and gain an uncommon look at the ecological ties that bind our first National Park together, even in the cold, short days of winter.

winter eColoGy ProGram

followinG traCkS

a whole new exPerienCe what you’ll do winter in the Park

Your home base for the week is the beautiful Montana town of Gardiner, situated on the park’s northern edge and home to the famous Roosevelt Arch entrance. With snow blanketing the ground, the park reveals a hidden aspect, creating wildlife tracks and trails that you’ll follow and study.

Each day, you’ll explore snowy landscapes, snowshoe, observe wildlife, visit geothermal features, and collect data about wildlife movements. You’ll also spend a day with a wolf expert in the park’s Lamar Valley, observing wild wolves, learning the story of their reintroduction, and exploring how one species can significantly impact the shape of an entire ecosystem.

Visiting Yellowstone in the winter is a unique treat—you’ll encountera solitude and beauty in winter that’s harder to come by in the busy summer months. Your course capstone is a long dip in a geothermally-heated river inside the park, where you’ll enjoy the hot waters as you look out over a sparkling, snowy landscape.

YELLOWSTONE WINTER


At every corner, we found something with a story behind it: a bobcat skull, a mule deer carcass, animal tracks. The area is teeming with life, discoveries,

and stories.

- yellowstone participant, 2015

Montana

WyomingIdaho

“What kind of wildlife will I see?”Your research will involve tracking cougars and studying bison; you’ll likely see or find signs of many other mammal species.

“How cold will it be?”As in summer, temperatures can vary dramatically within the park. Highs may hover around freezing or below - take special care of your hands and feet when packing.

“track elusive species throuGh the snow

wear your swimsuit in the middle of winter in montana

observe and study wolves with an expert

*airfare not included


$1,995* 9 days Jan. - March 7-15

YELLOWSTONE WINTERYellowstone

National Park

FAQS“ ProGram hiGhliGhtS


My EPI course reminded me that I can have a positive influence in the world and that when you are passionate about something, you really can use your passion to change the world.

-Belize participant, 2014

“ “`M o r e t h a n a F i e l d t r i p

EPI’s partnership model gives you insider access - you’ll travel behind the scenes in incredible natural ecosystems, work with renowned researchers, and see the sights like no one else can.

With new skills learned from one-of-a-kind on-course experiences,

your college essays will write themselves. How

many high school students can say they conducted research for the Galapagos National Park or added to a key study on leatherback sea turtle populations?


I will apply what I learned from my EPI experience at school, on my resume, and to land jobs that I choose to pursue in the near future.

- yellowStone participant, 2014

“ “adventure, education, culture

Built FroM the Ground up

It’s true, EPI is focused on science, but the kind of science that sends a thrill

down your spine. We know how to have fun in the field,

too, and your instructors are chosen for their ability to create amazing

experiences for you.

EPI is invested in the local communities where we work. As a non-profit, we work hard to offer program opportunities to local

students, and we’re proud to say that over 60% of our alumni come from

outside the U.S. You’ll meet some of them on course.

science & cultural exchange field programswww.ecologyproject.org • 406.721.8784 • [email protected] SCienCe & Cultural exChanGe field ProGramS20

The program was an interesting balance of learning, study, and action. It gave me varying ways to learn about ecology and field work that I could not otherwise have accessed, and it showed me the wonder and beauty of this field. The work, while sometimes challenging, was always satisfying - whether it was conservation or research.

-yellowstone participant, 2014

“ “


From their hatchling weight of 1.5 oz., leatherback sea turtles will grow to an average of

1000 lbs- more than 10,000 times their original weight!

The average body length for a nesting female is

6.5 feet

Nearly 100% of the leatherback diet is jellyfish. Because jellyfish are primarily saltwater, leatherbacks have the largest salt excretion glands of any reptile - twice as big as their brains.

A typical nest contains

80-110 eggs , of which, 50-70% will hatch. Less than 1% of

fertile leatherback eggs will reach adulthood.

The best beach sites for leatherbacks are gently sloped and devoid of light - they nest only at night.

RE SEARCH WITH A PURPOSE

Fifteen years later, the first hatchlings observed by EPI students are now returning as adults.

CauSe for Celebration

In 2000, the leatherback nest predation rate at EPI’s current field site was 98%. By 2014, this rate had dropped to 2%.

7,500 students have monitored crucial nesting habitat in Costa Rica through EPI.

Student-driven data has aided countless research projects and has been presented at the annual International Sea Turtle Symposium.

Local residents are now employed by EPI’s partner reserves to monitor turtle populations.

EPI partners with three turtle reserves on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.

Students monitor protected beaches at night during nesting season, from March to July.

When a turtle is sighted, students and researchers collect biometric data - including length, appearance, and number of eggs.

Nesting turtles enter a trance while laying eggs, allowing for close observation without interference.

Students and researchers often relocate nests to areas of the beach better suited for hatching success.

your imPaCtthe ProCeSS

Photo by: Oliver Grunewald


SOLO STUDENT TRAVELWhile we primarily work with teachers and groups, EPI offers opportunities to motivated individual students at our research sites around the Western Hemisphere. From marine biology to conservation, sea turtle research to wildlife photography, we’re here to help connect your students with field and travel experiences.

The course was the best time of my life. I loved everything we did, and I made bonds that will last forever.

-yellowstone student, 2015

“ “

Many group courses accept individual students from other

schools. Check our current offerings at:

ecologyproject.org/students

For students looking for an extended research opportunity,

check out our 18-day Research Expedition: Costa Rica.

ecologyproject.org/expedition


ON THE WEBlearn more on our webSite:www.ecologyproject.org

find uS on faCebook:@ecologyproject

tweet yo’Self Silly:@ecologyproject

Stay tuned in via our inStaGram:@ecologyproject

watCh videoS on our ProGramS:Ecology Project International


BE THE TEACHER YOUR STUDENTS REMEMBER

EPI’s methods for teaching science are some of the best I’ve ever seen. They would be very applicable to teaching the Next Generation Science Standards in my home district.

-Baja Chaperone, 2014

“

Teacher Pricing1 teacher travels for free

with 6 students

2 teachers travel free with 12 students

“I n q u i r y EPI courses provide a concrete framework and context within which your students can ask questions that interest them. When students take responsibility for their education, the results are powerful.

Appl ied Research EPI student research directly benefits endangered species and threatened ecosystems. You’ll be contributing to a body of knowledge that helps scientists, policy-makers, and the public make informed decisions and positive impacts in the world.

Service Learning All EPI programs incorporate service projects as a key component of the field experience. Carry a sense of accomplishment home with you after you help restore tropical forests, remove invasive plants, or improve endangered wildlife habitat.

I n s p i r a t i o n When did you feel most connected with the natural world? When you step back into that feeling, the ripple effects reach your students and beyond.

Hands-Free PlanningOur staff know and appreciate the time-intensive realities of life as a classroom teacher. We’ve streamlined our planning, paperwork, and payment processes to make the experience as straightforward as possible.


CLASSROOM IMPACT

You have a great program that was

VERY applicable to where the future

of NGSS is headed. It was wonderful

to have the students see real world

science practices.

-2014 Marine Education Fellow

“ “Environmental Literacy: Demonstrating the knowledge,

dispositions, competencies, and behaviors necessary to actively engage, individually or as a group, in the task of addressing environmental challenges.

EPI’s curricula are built on the environmental education guidelines of international

frameworks and the Next Generation Science Standards.

For much more, including how we work to change student Behaviors through

the use and development of Knowledge, Competencies, and Dispositions, visit the curriculum section of our website.

www.ecologyproject.org • 406.721.8784 • [email protected] science & cultural exchange field programs26 SCienCe & Cultural exChanGe field ProGramS

SCHOLARSHIPS & FINANCIAL AIDaid FroM epi

We have some need-based funding available to enrolled

students. Applications are available upon request, and

typically due in late fall. Most qualified students who

apply receive $200-$600 in scholarship funds.

international coMMunity Foundation ScholarShip

Thanks to the ICF, first-time school groups who enroll at least six students before spring or fall deadlines receive a

$1000 scholarship for their group. Contact us for more

information and specific deadlines for 2015 and 2016.

Fund r a i S i n GMany EPI groups have successfully raised large portions

of their tuition through incredibly creative fundraising

ideas. Contact us for help or to take advantage of our

ready-made coffee fundraiser. For every bag

sold, your students raise $5 towards their course.


SCHOLARSHIPS & FINANCIAL AID

TAKE THE NEXT STEPS ?

“When should a school sign up?”Reserve early! Many courses are reserved before the previous school year finishes. A $1500 deposit reserves 6 spaces.

“Where does this deposit money come from?”There are three options:1. Students. Students can

submit their applications and deposits directly to EPI.

2. School. Reserving early guarantees a desirable course date that can be advertised to prospective students. EPI will refund the deposit to the school once applications and deposits are received.

3. Teacher. If you cover the deposit, you will guarantee that you get the exact course date that works best for you. EPI will refund your deposit once applications and student deposits are received.

“Is airfare included?”Tuition prices include airfare from the Continental US for all courses except Yellowstone.

“Do I have to be part of a pre-established group to participate?”No. In addition to group enrollment, many courses are “open enrollment”. See page 23 or get in touch for more information

about traveling on your own.

“Can individuals and groups from outside the U.S. participate?”Yes. We welcome students from any country in the world. Because airfare is not included for international students, tuition prices are reduced.

“Will I be able to check e-mail and use the internet while on course?”No. EPI maintains an ‘unplugged policy’ at all times on course to help ensure that students maximize their time away from home (and away from cellphones, computers, and iThings) and to minimize the chance of damaged and/or lost electronic equipment. Participants are encouraged to bring cameras. If students wish to bring these devices to use on airplanes, they are welcome to do so. EPI instructors will collect the devices on arrival to the host country and return them to students at the end of the course.

“Do participants prepare their own meals?”No, except for the Yellowstone course, where students help with meal prep. On all international courses, EPI hires local cooks to prepare meals.

Frequently aSked queStionS

Once you’ve chosen the program(s) that interest you, here’s what our process looks like:

Get in Touch We’re always happy to help answer your questions and provide additional information.

Select Dates Your EPI contact will help you choose the right time to travel, depending on your school schedule and our field site availability.

Spread the Word Share the opportunity with your students. We have posters, videos, and other outreach materials available, and we can provide suggestions for after-school and parent meetings. Enrollment is easy through our website, and if six or more of your students enroll before our spring and fall deadlines, group scholarship funds are available to first-time schools.

EPI would like to Thanks the following contributing photographers:Francisco Laso, Oliver Grunewald, Mavis Negroni, Art Westwood, Haley Hanson, Rachael Caldwell, Simon Buzzard, Kyle Watson, Chris Kamman, Carlos Trejos, Scott Pankratz, Eric Ramos, Matt Carter, Corey Constantino, Don Hebert, Erin Clark, Melissa Peterson, Lisa Macki, John Kamman, and countless instructors and participants over the past 15 years.

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315 S. 4th Street E.Missoula, MT 59801

Documents

edefine theClaSSroom - Ecology Project International › assets › docs › EPI-2016Catalog.pdf · teacher at Sussex School in Missoula, MT, where he’s expanding and improving