Session #1 - Kathy Madren and Lexi Eiler Alwine, Indiana Department of Natural Resources

"Re-Learning & Re-WILDing"

Deepen your roots and reconnect with your wild side while experiencing Project Learning Tree and Project WILD activities that promote social & emotional well-being.

Session #2 - Kathy Madren and Lexi Eiler Alwine, Indiana Department of Natural Resources

"Building Social-Emotional Competency with Project Learning Tree & Project WILD"

Experience Project Learning Tree and Project WILD activities with a social-emotional lens to learn how they align with Indiana’s Social-Emotional Learning Competencies and promote social & emotional well-being in your students.

Session #3 - Lou Weber, Saint Francis University

"The Psychological Benefits of Time in Nature"

A review of the latest research in ecotherapy and ecopsychology, stories from my experience working with groups in Fort Wayne, and techniques that can be used.

Session #4 - Michelle Morton, Conner Prairie

"Enhancing Mental Health and Wellbeing through the practice of Forest Therapy"

Forest Therapy is a nature connection practice which elevates sensory observations in the present moment. Participants use their senses to connect to the landscape as a way to gently and mindfully notice themselves and the world. Slow and intentional time in nature, such as through a Forest Therapy experience, can reduce stress, relieve anxiety, boost happiness, promote relaxation, and build connections to the natural world. This session, led by Conner Prairie Museum Nature Engagement Specialist and certified Nature & Forest Therapy Guide Michelle Morton, will focus on the practice of Forest Therapy, its history, its benefits, and include time outside experiencing this wellness practice.

Session #5 - Diana Bowman, New Castle Senior High School

"Ecoteach - Where Travel Can Change the World"

Session #1 - Sarah Wolf, Hendricks County Partnership for Water Quality

"How to Get Invited to Schools and How and What to Teach"

Session #2 - Kristie Reddick & Jessica Honaker, The Bug Chicks

Session #3 - Crystal Leu, Oak Farm Montessori School

"Connecting Students to the Natural World through a Working School Farm"

What happens when caring for animals becomes part of the school day? At Oak Farm Montessori School, students engage with the rhythms of the natural world through daily, hands-on work with livestock on a working school farm. This session will explore how animal husbandry—caring for goats, chickens, donkeys, and more—supports environmental education, responsibility, and a deep emotional connection to living systems. Participants will learn how animal care routines are woven into academic subjects and character development, teaching students about life cycles, food systems, empathy, and stewardship. Whether you're considering a classroom pet, starting with chickens or already envisioning a barn, this presentation will offer practical guidance, lessons learned, and inspiration for integrating animal keeping into your school environment in meaningful, educational ways.

Session #4 - Emily Gough, Warsaw Community High School

"Envirothon: A Collaborative Academic Competition for High School Students"

The Envirothon is an environmental and natural resource competition for high school students, which incorporates authentic and collaborative problem solving. Come hear about the benefits of this international program from the coach of the 3-time state champion Warsaw Community High School team. High school teachers will learn more about how to register a team and prepare students for the competition, and non-classroom environmental educators will learn about how they can also get involved in this impactful program.

Session #5 - Joe Robb, Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge

Strand 3 - Connections: Fostering Inclusivity

Session #1 - Gena Grobarek, Oak Farm Montessori School

"Supporting IEPs Through Nature-Based Education"

Session #2 - Kara Ketter, The Nature School of Central Indiana

"Nature and Neurodiversity"

Time spent in nature brings many benefits, particularly to those who are neurodivergent! In this session, learn from an autistic educator about how the natural world supports learning and regulation for neurodivergent children (and adults) and how to ensure your nature-based experiences are inclusive and accessible. Together, we’ll explore how to help ND children develop their ecological identity and how to advocate for nature-based experiences for all!

Session #3 - Jack Shoaf, Shelbyville High School

Session #4 - Axel Cooper, Lost Creek Acres

"Community Building through Mentorship and Shared Experience"

Session #5 - Emily Gough, Warsaw Community High School

"The People Connection: Human Ecology Activities to Inspire Teens"

In this interactive workshop, engage in activities that address population ecology, carrying capacity in nature, biodiversity, and human impacts on ecosystems. Develop and use 3D models and simulations to explain ecological phenomena, and discuss ways to implement these activities in an inclusive classroom/group as part of broadening students’ understanding of sustainability.