Field Studies for Schools
Connecting teachers and students to the Sonoran Desert through hands-on outdoor adventures, exploring urban and wild landscapes while inspiring curiosity, discovery, and stewardship.
Get your students outside!
Option 1:
Urban W.A.T.E.R. class field trips (free for public schools)
Community W.A.T.E.R. seeks to increase teacher and student engagement with their community through green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) and watershed education by providing educational, experiential learning opportunities for students at Pima County Stormwater Park sites located throughout the city of Tucson. Class field trips to GSI sites provide powerful opportunities for hands-on, place-based learning. They are vibrant examples of how infrastructure can serve both people and nature, offering accessible, outdoor learning spaces in the heart of Tucson and even prepare youth for potential internships and workforce pathways in environmental careers!
Option 2:
Wildlands class field trips (free for public schools)
Wildlands FSS’s are longer day programs (~5-7 hours) that occur at various locations in Southern Arizona. These trips are a collaborative opportunity between ITE Instructors and classroom teachers to customize the program’s location and lessons to meet a teacher’s desired outcome for their classroom. Themes can range from nature, art, natural history, ecology, and field science.
Option 3:
Overnight & Custom class field trips (cost $$)
Custom overnight programs up to 3 days. From deeper dives into themes you are discovering in your classroom to community building, these programs can be designed in a myriad of ways to meet your needs. Depending on age of students, group size and other factors, we offer field station overnights, campground & primitive camping experiences as well as backpacking.
Complete the Student Field Trips interest form below to get started on scheduling a virtual program for your classroom!
Submit Interest Form
Testimonials
Description
Field Studies for Schools connects teachers and their students to the Sonoran Desert by getting classes outdoors and into the field – both in urban and wildland ecosystems. Our staff lead students through a spectrum of experiential learning that unfolds the classroom into the natural world. These programs span from a single day outing to multi-day camping trips.
Based on the desired outcomes, ITE’s skilled staff apply their knowledge of the Sonoran Desert region – from the sky islands to the urban alleyways – to weave place-based lessons into unforgettable field experiences.
Day programs are free for public schools, and some charter schools, and are designed for middle & high school age students. Any teacher can sign their class up for a Field Studies for Schools program!
Field Studies for Schools programs include:
- Gear and equipment for youth and adults that fit each type of program
- Expertise in outdoor education and risk management, including Wilderness First Aid certification
- Positive learning experiences that foster class camaraderie
Can’t get out in the field? Consider ITELive!
Can’t get out in the field? Consider ITELive!
ITELive! uses a synchronized learning model where our instructors connect with your classroom via a livestreaming platform. Just like an in-person program, our staff guide your students on a journey out in the natural environment to share stories and knowledge of the land. You and your class can interact with our team with our staff in the field using a real-time chat box.
Discover Our Other Teacher Programs
Click below to learn other ways in which Ironwood Tree Experience engages and supports high school teachers and their students in unique activities, workshops and adventures that advance skills and knowledge, bolster outdoor experiences, build a sense of place, and provide professional resources.