Mary Baldwin College Master of Arts in Teaching Program (MAT)
Environment-Based Learning Projects
is pleased to announce a new summer course:
TROUT IN THE CLASSROOM
July 7 – 11, 2008

Trout in the Classroom (TIC) is a program developed by Trout Unlimited. In this program, students in grades k-12 raise trout from eggs, monitor tank water quality, engage in stream habitat study, learn to appreciate water resources, begin to foster a conservation ethic, and come to understand ecosystems. Most programs end the year by releasing their trout in a state-approved stream near the school or within a nearby watershed.

In this MBC course, educators will focus on TIC tank set-up and maintenance, grant and funding options, coordination of efforts with local resources, and integrating TIC across the curriculum. Field experiences will focus on stream ecology, fisheries biology, and land use/watershed issues. 

Instructors:  
• Dr. Dennis Casey, Director of Education and Public Programs, Virginia Museum of Natural History
• Mark Zimmerman, VP Education/Outreach, Virginia Council of Trout Unlimited, VA  Regional TIC Coordinator
• Betty Gatewood, Teacher-in-Residence, Mary Baldwin College MAT Program,   and Augusta County Schools
   
Trout in the Classroom is designed to:
• Provide educators with strategies for implementing a TIC program
• Help educators plan curriculum for effective “environment-based learning” instruction.
• Increase teacher and student interest and knowledge of local watershed issues and related content
• Offer support as educators implement Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences (MWEE) with students

Course Schedule: 
• July 7 -11 – Frontier Culture Museum’s Octagonal Barn with local field investigations and applications
• Summer 2008 – Complete course assignments on-line
• Implementation assistance with TIC at respective schools during school year

Graduate Credit:  Successful completion of the course will provide 3 hours of graduate credit from Mary Baldwin College MAT. Tuition is discounted by a grant from NOAA Chesapeake Bay (tuition cost for teachers = $300). Registration/materials fee of $50 is due by May 15, 2008 (non -refundable). Participates will receive funds to implement Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences (MWEE) with students. Enrollment is limited to 20.

Registration Contact: 
Dr. Tamra Willis
Mary Baldwin College
Master of Arts in Teaching Program
Environment-based Learning Projects
Staunton, VA 24401
Phone: 540-887-7333, FAX: 540-887-7303 or e-mail: twillis@mbc.edu