Teacher Tuesday: Nature Unhooked (Grades 6–8) Teacher Training + Mississippi River Field Experience!
Join the Missouri Department of Conservation for an immersive professional development experience that brings Missouri’s aquatic science curriculum to life.
During this training, educators will be guided through the Nature Unhooked curriculum for grades 6–8, gaining the knowledge and confidence to implement hands-on, inquiry-based lessons aligned with Missouri Learning Standards and NGSS. Participants will receive curriculum materials and learn how to incorporate outdoor learning, student investigations, and project-based experiences into their classrooms.
The day begins at 8:30 a.m. at Red Star Boat Ramp, where participants will board a boat and travel up the Mississippi River to Tower Rock. Along the way, a Missouri Department of Conservation Big River Fisheries Management Biologist will provide expert insight into river ecology, native fish species, habitat challenges, and conservation efforts—bringing real-world context to the lessons teachers will teach.
This unique field experience offers:
- A guided tour of a working large-river ecosystem
- Firsthand learning about Missouri’s big river fish communities
- Opportunities to ask questions directly to fisheries professionals
Teachers are encouraged to bring their own personal flotation device (PFD) or may request to borrow one during registration.
After the Mississippi River field experience, participants will meet at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center to receive and go over more of the Nature Unhooked Lessons and curriculum.
To make the most of your time and professional development hours, participants are strongly encouraged to also register for the Discover Nature Fishing training taking place later the same day. Together, these trainings provide a complete foundation for teaching aquatic science and introducing students to fishing skills and stewardship—helping educators connect classroom learning with outdoor experiences.
Graduate Credit may be available.