Elementary and Secondary School Programs

Learning Inspired by Nature

LSPA’s school programs are supported by NH Curriculum Frameworks and the Next Generation Science Standards, and are designed to meet specific learning objectives at each age level. Lessons offer hands-on learning, techniques for observing the natural world, and opportunities to explore the out of doors. Programs can be tailored to meet specific classroom criteria, dynamics and special needs.

All programs are free of charge, supported by LSPA member donations and grant funds.

LSPA school programming has supported area schools for over 30 years. We offer programs at LSPA’s Center for Lake Studies, in the classroom, and in the field. Morning, afternoon, and all day programs are available.

LSPA’s ecology based school programs immerse students in hands-on experiences, connecting them with their natural world and fostering an understanding of the importance of preserving and enhancing the special environment of the Lake Sunapee Region.

To request information regarding any of the programs below please contact Education Director Kathleen Stowell by filling out a form here.

LSPA Classroom Experiences

LSPA’s classroom curriculum is based on NH Curriculum Frameworks and the Next Generation Science Standards, and is designed to meet specific learning objectives. Here are the broad topics of our watershed based curriculum:

  • How Water Shapes Our World

  • Water Quality Investigations

  • Forest and Trees Discoveries

  • Watershed Wildlife

  • Aquatic Exploration

  • Climate Action

  • Seasonal Phenology

To request a program, please fill out a form here.

LSPA Led Field Experiences

LSPA led field programs are available throughout the Lake Sunapee Watershed and neighboring school yards. These programs involve hands-on, active learning in the outdoors with a focus on observational skills, plot studies and investigation into specific habitats.

  • Explore a Bog

  • Discover a Stream

  • Investigate a Lakeshore

  • Encounter a Forest

  • Study a Wetland

To request a program, please fill out a form here.

Trout in the Classroom

Trout in the Classroom is a New Hampshire Fish & Game outreach program designed to bring watershed ecology directly to the classrooms. The goal is to teach students about the ecology, biology, and history of trout and other aquatic life.

LSPA’s Educators supply and support each classroom with equipment, resources and monthly visits to enhance the learning of NH’s state fish, the Brook Trout. Each classroom experience is tailored by the teachers to reflect their specific watershed environment.

To request a program, please fill out a form here.

Visit LSPA’s Center for Lake Studies

LSPA Educators offer programs and lessons on a wide range of science topics. Classes are invited to visit the Center for Lake Studies and experience guided exploration of the exhibits, go on a scavenger hunt, and learn about the Lake Sunapee Watershed. Microscopes are available to investigate macroinvertebrates and planktons. Water quality tools and protocols for water sampling are on hand to investigate. Our upstairs Discovery Room is filled with sensory exhibits of pelts, antlers, track molds, tree cookies, rocks, and so much more.

To request a program, please fill out a form here.