MCF’s Educational Outreach
Teaching environmental sustainability is a growing pillar of MCF’s efforts. From 2013-2021 until a pause due the pandemic, MCF’s Kids for Conservation program gained momentum, offering lesson plans and educational materials, classroom visits, field experiences, and a sustainable garden initiative. Driven by donations, our educational outreach 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 educational outreach as one of three strategic priorities for our organization’s future. We set out to build a hands-on education and outreach plan to reach Monmouth County residents of all ages focused on environmental sustainability and quality of life related to our mission and to devise a plan for land ownership.
Our Curriculum
We began developing a preschool through high school lesson plan portfolio in collaboration with Monmouth University, which builds on MCF’s role to preserve green space and demonstrates the importance of restoring biodiversity and ecosystem function; employing natural climate solutions; and taking individual action to create climate resiliency and build hope for a sustainable future.
Building on this curriculum, we are designing public-friendly educational materials and activities to deliver on site via field trips, classes, and other experiences at Scudder Preserve and on the road via the MCF Conservation Wagon. Our intention is to engage as much of Monmouth County’s diverse population as possible with our programming.
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.
