Project WILD Classes for Educators Coming Up

-By Jeffifer Jackson/Southeast Regional Conservation Educator How would you like to be a "WILD teacher"? A "WILD teacher" is one who has participated in a Project WILD workshop presented by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Participants learn about wildlife and discover fun and exciting ways to teach wildlife conservation and ecological concepts in the classroom. Plus, it is a great way to earn a credit through an Idaho university! Project WILD isnÕt just for the science educators. Even if you teach math, art, PE, or run the library at your school, there is something for you in Project WILD! WILD About Early Learners Imagine teaching about wildlife, habitat, and conservation to a class of 3-year olds! It can be done, especially if you have the right tools. If you are an educator who works with youth, Pre-K through 2nd grade, and you are looking for fun, innovative ideas for teaching about wildlife and wildlife conservation in the classroom, WILD About Early Learners is for you! This workshop will be held at the Fish and Game office in Pocatello located at 1345 Barton Road. The class will run from 4:00 pm until 9:00 pm on Friday, April 17, and will continue from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm on Saturday, April 18. Workshop participants will receive three activity guides with over 150 wildlife-related activities, all of which are correlated to Idaho State Education standards. Participants will be exposed to modified Project WILD activities to fit the needs of a younger audience-- incorporating science, art, math, vocabulary, music and movement, home connections, and much more! Class fee is $40 plus $60-75 for the optional university credit. WILD About Bats Ð NEW!! Learn more about the worldÕs only flying mammals in the newest workshop to join the Project WILD family. This workshop will run June 17 and June 18 at the Pocatello Fish and Game office, with a field excursion scheduled off-site. Bats take flight every evening throughout Idaho (except when hibernating) to work Mother NatureÕs night shift-- controlling crop pests, munching on mosquitoes, and even slaying a few scorpions. This workshop will not only dispel common myths about bats, but will offer a field opportunity to join biologists for a night of bat capture -- "catch and release" only of course! We wonÕt stay up too late because our second day will be filled with information sharing and brand new bat-related educational activities perfect for any time of year, not just Halloween! Class fee is $35 plus $60-75 for the optional university credit. To register for either or both of these classes, go to http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/education/?getPage=215. Search under Introductory or Specialized Classes. Complete the registration form and mail to the address shown. Please contact the regional office in Pocatello at 208-232-4703 for more information or for help with registration.