MCF’s Education Outreach
Teaching environmental sustainability is a growing pillar of MCF’s efforts. From 2013-2021 Teaching environmental sustainability is a pillar of MCF’s mission. From 2013-2021, MCF’s Kids for Conservation program offered lesson plans, educational materials, classroom visits, field experiences, and a sustainable garden initiative. Driven by donations, this program served 3,000 students in 25 schools across Monmouth County, 75% of which were in Urban Aid communities.
In 2023, MCF launched a renewed focus on education outreach as one of three strategic priorities for our organization’s future. Our engaging environmental education curriculum focuses on conservation, environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and supporting local farms.
You can reach us at education@monmouthconservation.org.
School Visits
MCF delivers hands-on environmental education curriculum for all ages. Aligned to Next Generation Science Standards, our place-based lessons focus on New Jersey ecosystems and are perfect for classroom visits, clubs, and after-school activities. Programming is free for underserved communities, specified in our booking process.
Programs
- Habitat and Connected Landscapes
- Sustainable Food Systems
- Climate Change and Natural Climate Solutions
- Sustainable Design Lab
- Freshwater Systems and Water Quality
Join us for a Guided Program at Scudder Preserve
Scudder Preserve is a 90-acre natural haven in the Navesink section of Middletown Township. Originally owned by the Scudder Family, a series of visionary land and conservation easement donations led to the property’s full preservation. In 2024, MCF became the permanent owner of Scudder Preserve. We are dedicated to stewarding this special land – the organization’s first land holding – as a nature preserve and community space; welcoming outdoor exploration and safeguarding the land’s ecological integrity. MCF offers year-round nature excursions and interactive lessons for all ages.
MCF Conservation Wagon
The partnership with Monmouth University expanded in 2024 to include professional development for educators through a NJ Department of Education grant. We help teachers explore climate science, local environmental issues, and practical teaching strategies aligned with New Jersey Student Learning Standards.
Generously Donated by
Teacher Professional Development
MCF is proud to continue participating as a nonprofit partner in the Climate Change Learning Collaboratives (CCLCs), through a grant renewed in 2025 by the New Jersey Department of Education to Monmouth University. The statewide CCLC program trains K–12 educators in teaching climate change across grade levels and subject areas. As part of this effort, MCF regularly hosts free, experiential field-based trainings for educators and students on understanding and implementing the statewide climate change curriculum requirements. Please check our event calendar for our latest offerings.
For more information, contact education@monmouthconservation.org
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Featuring photography by: Sandra Seitemaa, Jennifer Arnold, Doug Caum, Element5 Digital, Kevin Knecht, Marcella Shook Photography, Bryan Dalik, Juliane Liebermann, Karen Keene, and Kathy Buchan.
