Cultivating Wonder: Nature-Based Renewal for Educators
FALL 2026 EDITION
In a profession governed by bells, standards, and schedules, it is easy to lose touch with the curiosity that drove us to teach in the first place. Research shows that "Awe"- the feeling of being in the presence of something vast that transcends our understanding - is a critical antidote to stress and burnout.
Cultivating Wonder is designed not just to give you new teaching strategies, but to reinvigorate you. This course operates on a simple premise: You cannot share what you do not possess. To spark a love of nature and curiosity in students, a teacher must first rekindle their own sense of wonder. Whether you are an outdoor education veteran or a teacher who prefers the indoors, this course will help you use the natural world as a battery to recharge your teaching practice and model lifelong curiosity for your students.
10/13 Session 1: The Science of Awe & The Art of Noticing
10/19 Session 2: Nature Sketches and Observation for Non-Artists
10/26 Session 3: Bringing the Outside In
11/2 Session 4: Modeling Curiosity
11/9 Session 5: Implementation: Share a plan to cultivate wonder (Due Nov. 16)
FORMAT: Asynchronous online learning
DATES: 10/13/26 - 11/9/26
GCRTC FACILITATORS/CONTACTS: James St.Denis, Liz Daley & Dave Fields, GCRTC Teacher Leadership Coaches
FEE: None. Registration is required.
CTLE HOURS: 15
REGISTRATION: https://tinyurl.com/4bpy35sv