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The world feels wide in North Carolina. A magical landscape is ours to explore, from the mountains to the foothills, the Piedmont to the coast. As we rollick and roam through our lush backyard, greeted by birdsong and dwarfed by pines, we discover that the best classroom is the one that’s outside.

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Gwynne Stump

Eden Simmons

Stella Sophia

From Creek Explorer to Scientist: How Muddy Sneakers Shaped an Alumni’s Path

Pumpkin Seed Science Experiment

Erika Davis

The Great Ice Cube Melt Race

Jessica Duncan

Busy Bee Pollination Station

From Goats to Graduate School: How Muddy Sneakers Shaped an Alumni’s Path

Casey Therrien

Erica Brown

Ashley Morris

Emanuel Aragon Cruz

Jaclyn Rodriguez

Katia Griffin-Jakymec

LaToya Skinner

Lucy Carte

Melody Hollinger

Sienna Rutledge

🌿 Educator Spotlight: Gwynne Stump! 🥾 From studying lizards and earning a Ph.D. in Biology to teaching STEAM camps and caring for wildlife, Gwynne’s journey has always been rooted in science, curiosity, and a love of learning! 🔬 After moving to Western North Carolina, she fell in love with the incredible biodiversity of the Southern Appalachian Mountains, and her passion for science and teaching eventually led her to Muddy Sneakers. Today, Gwynne helps students discover that science isn’t just something found in a textbook. It’s happening all around them! Whether they’re exploring what lives beneath a log or investigating changes in matter, she encourages students to ask questions, get curious, and make discoveries of their own. 🌱 When she’s not leading outdoor adventures, Gwynne enjoys hiking with her dog, swimming, crafting, and spending time with her family. Want to learn more about Gwynne’s unique journey to Muddy Sneakers? Check out her educator bio! 💚 🔗 Read Gwynne’s Bio by clicking on our link. #MuddySneakers #MeetOurEducators #OutdoorEducation #ScienceEducation #NatureExploration

🌿 The Classroom Has No Walls! What if the best place to learn about science, math, and the world around us is right outside the classroom door? 🌎 Outdoor learning gives students the chance to turn abstract concepts into real-world discoveries. They can measure tree heights, observe animal habitats, investigate weather patterns, and ask questions that lead to exciting new learning opportunities. When students can see, touch, and explore what they are learning, lessons become more meaningful and memorable. At Muddy Sneakers, we believe curiosity grows when students have the freedom to explore! 💬 What subject would your students love to take outdoors? #MuddySneakers #OutdoorLearning #HandsOnLearning #Education

🌿 Bring Outdoor Learning to Your School! 🌿 Are you an educator or school administrator interested in bringing hands-on outdoor science experiences to your students in grades 2–5? Join Muddy Sneakers for an informational session to learn how our programs bring science to life through exploration and discovery! 🌱 We’ll cover the benefits of outdoor learning, how our programs align with North Carolina science standards, pricing, funding opportunities, and how to sign up for the upcoming season. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions and learn how to get started! Whether you’re new to Muddy Sneakers or ready to learn more, we’d love to connect with you! 📣 Register today and take the first step toward an unforgettable outdoor learning experience for your students! 🔗 https://dz3ky.share.hsforms.com/2fNVY2LaaQLiquTKkHWnihg #MuddySneakers #OutdoorLearning #ExperientialEducation #ScienceEducation #NorthCarolinaEducators

🌿 Educator Spotlight: Eden Simmons! 🥾 For Eden, a love of nature started close to home. Growing up in the mountains of Western North Carolina, she developed a deep appreciation for the region’s forests, wildlife, and incredible biodiversity. That passion led her to earn a degree in ecology from @unc_asheville and eventually find her place at Muddy Sneakers! Today, Eden brings her love of science and the outdoors to students, helping them ask questions, make observations, and discover the natural world for themselves. 🔍 Her goal is to inspire the next generation of curious explorers and help students build their own connections to nature. Want to learn more about Eden and her journey with Muddy Sneakers? Visit her educator bio! 🌱 🔗 Read Eden’s Bio by clicking on our link! #MuddySneakers #MeetOurEducators #OutdoorEducation #NatureEducation

Nature Is Full of Patterns 🍃 Leaves, spider webs, tree rings, clouds, and even animal tracks all tell incredible stories. 🕸️ Students become scientists as they observe patterns and make predictions about the world around them. Outdoor learning helps connect classroom concepts with real life discoveries. Science is everywhere when you know where to look. 🌎 What natural pattern has caught your attention recently?

🔍 What do curiosity, hands-on learning, and the scientific process have in common? They’re all part of learning with Muddy Sneakers! 🌿 We use an inquiry-based approach that encourages students to ask questions, investigate, analyze data, and discover answers for themselves. 🧪 During our Matter program, students put this approach into action by building nests to explore conductors and insulators. Using a cup of hot water as their “egg,” students observe changes in temperature to discover which materials do the best job of keeping their nests warm. 🥚🌡️ By making observations and drawing their own conclusions, students aren’t just learning science concepts. They’re thinking like scientists! What would you use to build a nest that keeps an egg warm? Share your ideas in the comments! 👇 #MuddySneakers #OutdoorEducation #ScienceEducation #InquiryBasedLearning #HandsOnLearning

🌱 Your legacy can help future generations grow a lifelong connection to nature. This National Estate Planning Awareness Week, we're celebrating the meaningful ways we can support the people and causes we care about. For many, estate planning begins with taking care of loved ones. And sometimes, there's an opportunity to leave a meaningful gift to a cause close to your heart. By including Muddy Sneakers in your will or naming us as a beneficiary of a retirement, investment, or bank account, you can help ensure that more children experience the wonder of outdoor education for generations to come. 💚 Support outdoor education. Inspire future environmental stewards. Create lasting change. Learn more about leaving a legacy through the link in our bio. #MuddySneakers #LegacyGiving #PlannedGiving #OutdoorEducation #EnvironmentalEducation #LeaveALegacy

Safety First at Muddy Sneakers! 🌿 Our Piedmont educators, Stella Sofia and Lucy Carte, recently completed CPR, AED, and Wilderness First Aid training at Davidson College, led by experienced instructors from Landmark Learning in partnership with NOLS. Over 19 hours of hands-on instruction, they learned essential skills for responding to medical emergencies, from injuries and illness to evacuation planning. Their certifications are valid through October 2028, helping ensure they’re prepared to keep themselves, our students, and adult chaperones safe during outdoor adventures! We’re proud of Stella and Lucy for investing in their skills and helping make outdoor learning both meaningful and safe! 💚 #MuddySneakers #OutdoorEducation #WildernessFirstAid #SafetyFirst

Teachers Inspire Exploration 🍂 Teachers help students see the world in new ways every single day. Pair that passion with outdoor education, and amazing things happen. 🌳 Students become active learners who investigate the natural world with excitement and confidence. Every adventure outside creates opportunities for meaningful connections. Tag a teacher who inspires curiosity in their classroom! 🍎

🌿 Interested in bringing Muddy Sneakers to your school? Join us for a virtual information session on October 19 at 12 PM to learn how we bring science to life through hands-on, outdoor learning for students in grades 2–5! We’ll cover our programs, the benefits of outdoor education, alignment with North Carolina science standards, pricing, funding opportunities, and how to sign up for the upcoming season. Whether you’re new to Muddy Sneakers or looking to bring your students back for another adventure, this is a great opportunity to learn more and ask questions! 💻 Register today via the link in our bio to take the first step toward an unforgettable outdoor learning experience! #MuddySneakers #OutdoorEducation #ScienceEducation #NorthCarolinaEducators #HandsOnLearning #Science #ScienceInNature #Parks #Getoutside

🦋 Nature Find Friday: Definite Tussock Moth Caterpillar! 🌿 🧐 What it is: This fuzzy little caterpillar is a definite tussock moth caterpillar (Orgyia definita). With its bright yellow tufts, dark markings, and long hairs, it certainly knows how to stand out in the forest! 🌳 Did you know? These caterpillars feed on a variety of trees and shrubs, helping move energy through the food web as they grow. Their distinctive tufts and hairs also provide some protection from predators. ⚠️ Look, but don’t touch! Like many tussock moth caterpillars, their hairs can cause skin irritation, so it’s best to admire them from a distance. 🔍 Nature challenge: Have you ever spotted a fuzzy caterpillar like this one? Take a closer look next time you’re outside. You might be surprised by how many different caterpillars are hiding in plain sight! 🐛💚 #NatureFindFriday #MuddySneakers #NatureEducation #OutdoorLearning #Caterpillar #TussockMoth #NatureExploration #GetOutside

🏒🌿 A Game Changer for Muddy Sneakers! Yesterday, we visited Lenovo Center to receive our $20,000 Game Changer grant from the @canes! On behalf of the thousands of students we serve across North Carolina, thank you to the Hurricanes for investing in outdoor science education. 💚 Sometimes, learning outside the classroom makes all the difference. With support like this, we can help more students build confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning! Thank you, Carolina Hurricanes, for helping make these experiences possible! 🌎🔬 #MuddySneakers #CarolinaHurricanes #GameChanger #OutdoorEducation #HandsOnLearning

❓Curiosity Starts With One Question: Why is this rock smooth? Why do mushrooms grow here? Why are insects important? 🪲 Every great scientist starts by asking questions. At Muddy Sneakers, students are encouraged to investigate, explore, and discover answers through real-world experiences. Curiosity fuels lifelong learning. 💚 What question has a student asked that completely surprised you? #muddysneakers #outdorrlearning #education #outdooreducation #science #scinceinnature #parks #northcarolina #teachers

Muddy Sneakers is hiring! We are seeking an experienced and mission-driven Executive Director to lead Muddy Sneakers into its next chapter. This is an exciting opportunity for a collaborative nonprofit leader who is passionate about outdoor education, youth development, and connecting children to the natural world. The Executive Director will provide strategic leadership, support our dedicated team, cultivate community partnerships, and help advance our mission and long-term growth. If you are a strategic thinker, relationship builder, and committed leader who believes in the power of outdoor learning, we encourage you to learn more about this opportunity. 📍 Location: North Carolina, with Triangle/Triad preferred 💼 Position: Full-time, remote/hybrid Know someone who might be a great fit? Please share this post with your network. Learn more and apply through the link in our bio. #MuddySneakers #NowHiring #ExecutiveDirector #NonprofitLeadership #OutdoorEducation #EnvironmentalEducation #NorthCarolinaJobs

🍄 Nature Find Friday: Witch’s Butter! 🧡 🧐 What it is: That bright orange, jelly-like growth is witch’s butter. Despite its unusual appearance, this fungus is a common woodland find, especially after wet weather! 💧 Did you know? Witch’s butter can look soft and rubbery when it’s moist, but it can shrivel up and become hard and crusty when conditions are dry. After the next rainfall, it can absorb water and plump right back up! 🌳 Where to find it: Look for it growing on dead or dying branches and twigs, often alongside other fungi like the shelf fungi seen in this photo. 👀 Nature challenge: Next time you’re exploring outside, keep an eye out for something bright and unexpected growing on a tree. What colors of fungi can you find? 🔍🍄 #NatureFindFriday #MuddySneakers #NatureEducation #OutdoorLearning #Fungi #WitchsButter #NatureExploration #GetOutside

🌿 Rooted in nature. Growing in the Triangle. Thanks to the support of the Walters Family Foundation, more students across the Triangle are getting to learn science by exploring the outdoors. Because when students connect with nature, they’re more likely to care for the world around them. 💚 We’re so grateful for this partnership! Read the full impact story, link in bio. #MuddySneakers #OutdoorEducation #TriangleNC #ScienceEducation

🌳 At Muddy Sneakers, we use an inquiry-based educational approach to build our lessons. This method teaches students key concepts by having them ask questions, conduct their own research, review information and data, and find answers themselves. Hey, that sounds a lot like the scientific process! 🔍 In our Matter program, students build nests to learn about conductors and insulators. In this activity, students come to their own conclusions about how well certain materials act as insulators by directly observing changes in starting and ending temperatures of an “egg” (a cup of hot water) inside their nest. 🪹

Science Is Better When Students Can Touch It 🖐️ Reading about ecosystems is important, but exploring one in person creates unforgettable learning. 🌎 Students who investigate streams, forests, and fields develop observation skills while building confidence in science. Outdoor learning encourages teamwork, problem-solving, and curiosity every step of the way. Those are skills that benefit students far beyond the classroom. 🌱 What hands-on activity gets your students the most excited? #Science #ScienceinNature #Outdoors #OutdoorLearning #Parks #Nature

🌿 Nature Find Friday: Green Treefrog! 🐸 Ever spotted a bright green frog hanging out on a window, porch, or plant? You may have found a Green Treefrog! 💚 🧐 What it is: Green Treefrogs are small, smooth-skinned frogs found throughout much of the southeastern United States. Their sticky toe pads help them climb and cling to all kinds of surfaces, even vertical ones! 🧗‍♀️ 🌙 Fun fact: These frogs are most active at night and use their loud, distinctive calls to communicate, especially during their mating season. 🎶 💧Habitat: Green Treefrogs are often found near ponds, wetlands, and other moist areas, where they can find plenty of insects to eat. 👀 Nature challenge: The next time you're outside, keep an eye out for these little green climbers! Where is the coolest place you've ever spotted a frog? 🐸👇 #NatureFindFriday #MuddySneakers #GreenTreefrog #NatureEducation #OutdoorLearning #GetOutside #NatureKids #Science #ScienceinNature #OutdoorEducation

What Would Your Students Notice? 👀 Imagine standing in the middle of a forest with your class. Would they notice birds calling overhead? 🐦 Tiny insects under a log? 🐞 The patterns in tree bark? Every observation is an opportunity to practice critical thinking and scientific inquiry. Nature is filled with questions waiting to be explored. Tell us, what is the coolest thing your students have discovered outdoors? 🌿

Trade the boardroom for the forest. 🌲✨ Introducing Nature at Work: an outdoor team experience where colleagues connect through hands-on science, exploration, and time in nature. Whether you're planning a team retreat, employee family day, or looking for a meaningful way to give back, every Nature at Work experience helps more North Carolina students connect with science, nature, and each other. Ready to take your team outside? 🌿 Link in bio to learn more! #NatureAtWork #MuddySneakers #TeamBuilding #OutdoorLearning #EmployeeEngagement #CorporateGiving #NorthCarolina #Leadership #GetOutside

Every Lesson Doesn't Need Four Walls 🌳 Some of the best science lessons begin the moment students step onto a trail. 🍃 When children investigate habitats, observe wildlife, and ask their own questions, learning becomes something they experience rather than memorize. Those moments build curiosity that lasts long after the school day ends. What outdoor lesson has made the biggest impact on your students? Share your story in the comments. 📚💚 Learn how Muddy Sneakers can bring hands-on science learning to your school! Click the link in our bio!

🕷️ What does a spider have to do with weather? At Muddy Sneakers, maybe more than you’d think! We encourage students to ask questions, follow their curiosity, and investigate the things they discover outdoors. That means if a student finds a really cool spider during a lesson about weather, we don’t just move on. We find a way to work that curiosity into the lesson! 🌦️ So, how could a spider become part of a weather lesson? Here are a few questions we might ask: 🕷️ What do you think a spider does when it’s raining? What about when it’s windy or sunny? 🌧️ How do other animals change their behavior during bad weather? ☁️ Do you think a spider knows when rain is coming? How might it know? 🌤️ Have you ever seen a cloud shaped like a spider? What kind of cloud would that be? 💨 What do you think a spider would do during high or low pressure? 🔎 Does this spider make you think of anything else related to weather? There’s no telling where a student’s curiosity might lead, and that’s part of the fun! Educators, how would you connect a cool outdoor discovery to a lesson about weather? Share your ideas in the comments! 👇 #MuddySneakers #OutdoorEducation #OutdoorLearning #ScienceEducation #HandsOnLearning #NatureBasedLearning #EnvironmentalEducation #Science #Nature #CuriosityInTheClassroom

Growing connections across the Triad! Muddy Sneakers’ Director of Development Casey Therrien and Piedmont Programs Manager Emanuel Aragon Cruz recently attended the Guilford Growth Summit at @uncg, connecting with business leaders, educators, and nonprofit partners who are invested in the long-term, sustainable growth of the Triad. We’re grateful for the opportunity to learn more about the region’s priorities, upcoming opportunities, and ways we can work together to support students and communities across the Triad. We’re excited to keep building partnerships that help more students experience the power of learning outdoors!

🐾 Happy National Dog Day! 🐾 Today is the perfect excuse to spoil your favorite adventure buddy with an extra treat, a long walk, or some quality time exploring the outdoors together! 🌲🐶 Whether your dog is your hiking partner, backyard explorer, or couch companion, we hope you give them a little extra love today! 🐕💚 📸 We want to see your pups! Share a photo of your dog in the comments and let us meet your favorite four-legged adventure buddy! And if you’re thinking about adding a four-legged friend to your family, consider adopting from your local shelter or rescue. ❤️ #NationalDogDay #MuddySneakers #GetOutside

🌿 2026-2027 Choose Your Own Adventure enrollment is open! 🎒 Muddy Sneakers’ Choose Your Own Adventure programs give students the chance to learn science through hands-on outdoor experiences. 📍 Serving schools across the Mountains and Piedmont of North Carolina 🌳 Field Trips in local natural areas 🎒 Outreach Programs at your school Students build curiosity, critical thinking, teamwork, and real-world science skills while exploring the world around them. 🔎🌎 ✨ Create an outdoor learning experience that works for your school. Enroll now! 👉 Learn more at muddysneakers.org (link in bio) #MuddySneakers #OutdoorEducation #OutdoorLearning #NCScience #NCTeachers

🔍 Nature Find Friday: Ruffle Lichen 🌿 🤔 It may look like a leafy plant, but it's actually a partnership that has stood the test of time. 🧐 What it is: Ruffle lichen is made up of two organisms living together: a fungus and algae. The fungus provides structure and protection, while the algae use sunlight to make food for both partners. 🌳 Where you'll find it: Growing on tree bark and fallen logs throughout North Carolina. It thrives in places with clean air and plenty of moisture. ✨ Fun fact: Lichens don't have roots! They absorb water and nutrients directly from the air, making them excellent indicators of air quality. If you see plenty of healthy lichens, it's often a sign of a healthy environment. 👀 Next time you're outside: Take a closer look at the bark of a tree. You might discover ruffle lichen's wavy, leafy edges creating tiny forests right at eye level. #NatureFindFriday #RuffleLichen #MuddySneakers #OutdoorLearning #NatureEducation #ExploreOutside #NCNature #ScienceEverywhere

We're proud to partner with @mastgeneralstore because they believe in investing in the communities they call home. 💚 Their Asheville store has been part of downtown since 1999, and this August, they're helping connect even more students with the outdoors through their Round-Up campaign. Thank you @mastgeneralstore, for supporting Muddy Sneakers and making outdoor learning possible for more students across Western North Carolina. 🌿🥾 #MuddySneakers #MastGeneralStore #CommunityPartnership #OutdoorEducation #AshevilleNC

Nature Find of the Week: Eastern Carpenter Bee 🐝 🌸 Don't let its size fool you—this gentle giant is one of North Carolina's most important native pollinators. 🧐 What it is: The Eastern Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa virginica) is a large, native bee often mistaken for a bumblebee. Unlike bumblebees, carpenter bees have a shiny, mostly hairless black abdomen. 🌎 Why it’s cool: Eastern Carpenter bees are excellent pollinators, helping wildflowers, gardens, and crops thrive. They get their name from the tunnels females create in wood to raise their young. While they may look intimidating, they're generally not aggressive, and males can't sting at all. 🔍 Look for it: Watch for carpenter bees visiting colorful flowers like coneflowers, bee balm, and sunflowers during spring and summer. You might also spot them hovering near wooden fences, decks, or tree limbs. 💬 Have you spotted a carpenter bee hard at work in your garden or on a hike? Tag us in your own #NatureFindsFriday post. We'd love to see what you've discovered!

August is National Make-A-Will Month. Please don't wait until it's too late. When Muddy Sneakers' Director of Development, Casey Therrien, lost her mom, Paula, in 2021, she turned to the "red folder," her mom had prepared with important documents. But an outdated will created additional stress and uncertainty during an already heartbreaking time. Casey's story is a reminder that planning ahead is one of the greatest gifts we can give the people we love. This August, create or update your will, and consider including Muddy Sneakers in your legacy plans. Your gift can help future generations of young people build confidence, curiosity, and connection through the outdoors. Read Casey’s story and learn how you can create a lasting legacy with Muddy Sneakers through the links in our bio. #NationalMakeAWillMonth #LegacyGiving #MuddySneakers

Nature Find of the Week: Land Snail 🤷‍♀️ Turns out some of the slowest creatures are hiding right under our feet. 🧐 What it is: A land snail is a small mollusk with a coiled shell, often found gliding across damp leaf litter. 🌎 Why it’s cool: Snails play an important role in breaking down decaying plant material, helping recycle nutrients back into the soil. Also, their shells grow with them! 🔍 Look for it: In moist, shady areas like forest floors, especially under leaves, logs, or after rain. Scan the ground carefully; these tiny travelers blend right in. 💬 Have you ever spotted one of these leaf-litter explorers on a hike? Tag us in your own #NatureFindsFriday post. We’d love to see what you’ve discovered!

🌧️ Sometimes the best lessons come with a little mud. 🌱 Outdoors, students learn that not everything goes according to plan. They navigate challenges, try new things, get messy, and keep going. That’s science. That’s resilience. And that’s part of the adventure. 🥾🔎

Nature Find of the Week: Black Rat Snake 🐍 👀 You might spot this excellent climber stretched across a tree branch instead of slithering on the ground. 🧐 What it is: The Black Rat Snake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis) is North Carolina's largest nonvenomous snake, often growing between 3 and 6 feet long. Despite its name, younger snakes have a gray body with dark blotches before turning mostly black as adults. 🌎 Why it’s cool: Black Rat Snakes help keep ecosystems in balance by feeding on rodents and other small animals. They're also skilled climbers, using rough bark and strong muscles to scale trees in search of bird eggs, nests, or a sunny place to rest. 🔍 Look for it: In forests, along woodland edges, around rocky outcrops, or even climbing trees. If you see one, give it plenty of space and enjoy observing this helpful native species from a distance. 💬 Have you ever spotted a Black Rat Snake in the wild? Tag us in your own #NatureFindsFriday post. We'd love to see what you've discovered!

🌿 Learning feels different outside. When students step outdoors, they get to move, explore, ask questions, and experience learning with their whole selves. 🌤️ Outdoor time supports more than what happens in the classroom. It gives students space to recharge, connect, and engage in ways that support both mind and body. More movement. More discovery. More reasons to love learning outdoors. 💚

Nature Find of the Week: Virginia Pennywort 🤷‍♀️ Turns out some of the most interesting plants are the ones you almost step over. 🧐 What it is: Virginia pennywort is a very small species with only a few scale-like purplish leaves on its short stem and with a tiny ball of flowers at the top of the plant. Virginia pennywort grows in small groups of individuals instead of dense colonies. 🌎 Why it’s cool: This is the only species in the Obolaria genus in North America! The name “pennywort” comes from the coin-like appearance of the leaves. 🔍 Look for it: Growing in rich soil in woodlands throughout the Mountains and Piedmont. 💬 Have you ever noticed these tiny green “pennies” on a hike? Tag us in your own #NatureFindsFriday post, we’d love to see what you’ve discovered!

🍄 Supporter Spotlight "What motivates me to support Muddy Sneakers is the lifelong enjoyment of the outdoors. I grew up on the edge of a small, remote Michigan town and later lived in rural Henderson and Transylvania counties." — Laura, Sole Society member Laura shared this beautiful photo of a Russula mushroom she found in Transylvania County, a reminder of the wonder waiting to be discovered outdoors. We're grateful to Laura for helping connect North Carolina students with meaningful outdoor learning experiences. 💚 Want to make a lasting impact? Join Laura by becoming a Sole Society monthly donor today: https://muddysneakers.org/get-involved/sole-society/ #MuddySneakers #SupporterSpotlight #OutdoorEducation #NorthCarolina #MonthlyGiving #SoleSociety #NatureLovers

📚 Learning that sticks starts outside. Reserve your school's Muddy Sneakers Annual Partnership before July 31 and give your 3rd and 5th grade students unforgettable outdoor science experiences aligned with North Carolina standards. 🌿 Hands-on, small-group field experiences 🔬 Standards-aligned science learning 💬 The kind of adventures students will be talking about long after the school year ends Don't miss your chance to bring meaningful outdoor learning to your classrooms this year. Learn more and reserve your partnership today! #MuddySneakers #OutdoorLearning #NCSchools #ScienceEducation #HandsOnLearning #FieldTrips #ElementaryEducation #NorthCarolinaTeachers

Nature Find of the Week: Quartz 🤷‍♀️ Turns out even one of the most common minerals can still feel a little magical. 🧐 What it is: Quartz is a hard, crystalline mineral made of silicon and oxygen. It often forms clear or milky crystals and can also appear in massive, glassy-looking chunks within rocks. It is the second most abundant mineral found in North Carolina and around the world. 🌎 Why it’s cool: Quartz plays a major role in shaping landscapes over time and shows up in everything from sand to mountain rock. It’s also used in technology, glassmaking, and even helps power watches and electronics thanks to its unique properties. 🔍 Look for it: Along creek beds, in gravel roads, or embedded in rocky outcrops. Watch for pieces that look glassy or sparkle in the sunlight, especially when wet. 💬 Have you ever spotted a glimmering quartz crystal on a hike? Tag us in your own #NatureFindsFriday post, we’d love to see what you’ve discovered!

🌿 Love teaching? Love the outdoors? Why not combine both? Muddy Sneakers is hiring Educators in both the Piedmont and Mountains regions of North Carolina! If you're passionate about helping students discover science through hands-on outdoor learning, we'd love to hear from you. Join a team that's inspiring curiosity, building confidence, and connecting kids with the natural world every day. Explore our current openings and apply today through the link in our bio!

🍁 Changing seasons bring new opportunities to learn. Students observe patterns and ask questions. Nature keeps the lessons fresh.

Nature Find of the Week: Dicranum Moss 🤷‍♀️ Turns out even the tiniest plants can make a big impact. 🧐 What it is: Dicranales are a group of mosses often forming soft, green clumps with leaves that curve in the same direction, giving them a windswept look. 🌎 Why it’s cool: These mosses help hold moisture in the forest floor and prevent soil erosion. They also create microhabitats for tiny organisms, supporting an entire hidden ecosystem. 🔍 Look for it: On forest floors, rotting logs, or at the base of trees in shady, damp areas. Look for dense, cushiony patches that feel soft underfoot. 💬 Have you ever noticed these miniature forests on a hike? Tag us in your own #NatureFindsFriday post. We’d love to see what you’ve discovered!

🌎 When students see themselves outdoors, they begin to see their place in the world. Every outdoor lesson helps them build a deeper understanding of ecosystems, their impact, and why caring for nature matters. Outdoor learning grows confident, curious learners who feel connected to the world around them. 🌿 How do you help students connect with nature? Tell us in the comments! 💚

Nature Find of the Week: Slimy Salamander 🤷‍♀️ Turns out some forest creatures have a pretty sticky defense. 🧐 What it is: The Slimy Salamander is a small, dark salamander often speckled with white or silver spots and found hiding under logs or rocks. 🌎 Why it’s cool: When threatened, it secretes a sticky slime that tastes bad and can glue the predator's mouth shut. It also doesn't have lungs, so it breathes through its skin, which means the salamander depends on moist environments to survive. 🔍 Look for it: In damp forests, especially under logs, rocks, or leaf litter. Carefully lift and replace cover objects to spot these secretive amphibians. 💬 Have you ever spotted one of these slippery salamanders on a hike? Tag us in your own #NatureFindsFriday post. We’d love to see what you’ve discovered!

✨ Every trip outdoors begins with a question: What will we discover today? 🐝🌿 From unexpected wildlife sightings to fascinating natural wonders, every Muddy Sneakers lesson is filled with moments that spark curiosity. When students are excited to explore, learning happens naturally, and those discoveries are the ones they remember long after the day ends.

🌎 On May 16, supporters of Muddy Sneakers gathered at Gwynn Valley Camp for an evening of gratitude, connection, and celebration. ⭐

🌿 Muddy Sneakers is proud to partner with the 1MKO (One Million Kids Outdoors) Initiative, a national movement dedicated to getting one million kids outdoors this year! Every day, we see the impact outdoor learning has on students: sparking curiosity, building confidence, and creating meaningful connections with nature. Together, we're helping more children discover the benefits of learning outside. @outdoorsallianceforkids #1MKO #OneMillionKidsOutdoors #MuddySneakers #OutdoorLearning #GetKidsOutside 🌎💚

✨ One of the best parts of outdoor learning? The surprises. Students never know what they'll find next, and those moments of discovery spark curiosity, excitement, and a deeper connection to science and nature. 🌿

🌿 Every child deserves the chance to learn outside. 🌿 As we approach the end of our fiscal year, Muddy Sneakers is working to raise $250,000 by June 30 to ensure more students across North Carolina can experience hands-on, outdoor learning. With grant funding more limited this year, support from individuals is more important than ever. Every gift helps connect children to the joy of learning in forests, streams, and fields while building confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong connection to the natural world. Join us in reaching our goal and helping more students discover the outdoors as a place for learning and growth. 💚 Donate today through the link in our bio. #MuddySneakers #OutdoorLearning #EnvironmentalEducation #NorthCarolina #Nonprofit #EndOfYearGiving

🌿 Textbooks introduce scientific ideas. Outdoor experiences bring them to life. When students engage directly with nature, learning becomes more meaningful, memorable, and relevant.

🦋 Some lessons can’t be replicated on a worksheet. Standing beside a stream, examining forest habitats, or tracking seasonal changes gives students the opportunity to engage with science where it happens - in the real world. 🌳

🍂 Every student experiences success differently. For some, it happens when they solve a problem. For others, it’s when they discover something no one else noticed. Outdoor learning creates space for every student to contribute, participate, and build confidence in their own way.

As the 2025–2026 school year comes to a close, we're reflecting on an incredible year of outdoor learning, discovery, and growth. 🌿 A heartfelt thank you to our school partners for making this year possible: 🍃 @babulldogs (Brevard Academy) 🍃 Francine Delany New School For Children 🍃 @icimagine (IC Imagine) 🍃 Junaluska Elementary School 🍃 Lake Lure Classical Academy 🍃 @rowansalisburyschools (Mt Ulla Elementary) 🍃 @Ccs_official828 (New Kituwah Elementary) 🍃 @nressm (North Rowan Elementary School) 🍃 @rockwellelemnc (Rockwell Elementary School) 🍃 @mcnair_elementary (Ronald E. McNair Elementary) 🍃 @shiningrockclassicalacademy (Shining Rock Classical Academy) 🍃 Tryon Elementary School Together, we explored streams, forests, fields, and schoolyards, helping students connect classroom learning to the natural world. We've gathered some of our favorite moments from the year into a special photo album. Take a look back at the adventures, discoveries, and memories that made this school year so meaningful. 📸 Click the link in our bio to view the 2025–2026 Year in Review album! Thank you to our educators, students, families, and supporters for being part of another unforgettable year with Muddy Sneakers. We can't wait to see what next year brings! 🌎💚

🌞 When students learn outside, science becomes an experience rather than just a lesson. Fresh air, active learning, and real-world discovery help ideas take root and grow.

🌼 Nature helps students develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. As they discover how ecosystems, communities, and natural processes are connected, they build meaningful experiences that create lasting impact.

“It's great watching the kids out in the Muddy Sneakers Outdoor Classroom...the introverted dig into the experiments with great concentration, while the super-active ones get focused on finding nature in every way possible. For many students, their Muddy Sneakers program is one of the few times they get to experience nature firsthand...and be able to explore the outdoors carefully guided by the instructors. Seeing and appreciating science in nature.” – Rick Houck, Chair, Muddy Sneakers Board of Directors At Muddy Sneakers, each member of our Board of Directors participates in a program shadow each year to stay closely connected to our mission and the students we serve. Rick recently joined a field experience and reflected on the impact outdoor learning has on students with different learning styles and backgrounds. His observations reinforce what we see every day: experiential, nature-based education helps students engage, focus, and connect with science in meaningful ways. For many children, these guided outdoor learning experiences are rare opportunities to explore nature firsthand. We’re proud to create spaces where curiosity, confidence, and environmental stewardship can grow together. #MuddySneakers #ExperientialLearning #EnvironmentalEducation #STEMEducation #OutdoorLearning #NonprofitLeadership

Getting started with Muddy Sneakers is easy! Here’s how Annual Partnership enrollment works for the 2026–2027 school year: 1️⃣ Submit a request form 2️⃣ Receive your Partnership Agreement to review and sign 3️⃣ Once signed, you’ll be ready to begin scheduling programs in June Programs fill based on availability, so early requests help secure your preferred schedule. 🔗 Start your request today! CLICK THE LINK IN OUR BIO!

Monthly giving makes it possible for 4,000+ students per year to gain hands-on STEM learning experiences at nature parks across North Carolina. This impact lasts a lifetime as these experiences can shape the trajectory of students' academic lives and inspire the next generation of environmental leaders. Join the Sole Society today with a monthly gift and help more children learn, grow, and thrive outdoors—all year long. Click the link in our bio!

Who are Muddy Sneakers Annual Partnerships for? ✅ Elementary schools looking to enhance science instruction ✅ Districts prioritizing experiential and outdoor learning (ask about our school-district discount!) ✅ Educators seeking meaningful, standards-aligned field experiences Check out the map to see where our programs take place: https://muddysneakers.org/programs/program-locations/ Schools outside these counties may still be eligible to participate. (Please note: long-distance travel fees and restrictions may apply.) Contact us to discuss options!

🌳 The forest is full of lessons waiting to be uncovered. Students build confidence as they explore. Every visit brings something new.

📣 Enrollment for 2026–2027 Muddy Sneakers Annual Partnerships is now open! Our programs are backed by evaluation from NC State University, showing measurable benefits in student engagement, science learning, and student well-being. As always, Full and Basic Annual Partnerships are available for 5th grade... and new this year, we’re excited to offer a 3rd Grade Basic Annual Partnership! 🎉 Enroll today to see the impact that consistent outdoor learning can have on your students. LINK IN BIO!

🌱 Time well spent outside 💚 Thank you for celebrating with us at the @peancorg Earth Day Fair, @raleighdowntown Earth Day, and Wild Ideas Event by @trianglelandconservancy! We loved seeing your curiosity, your excitement, and your love for the environment. 🌎✨ Drop a 🌿 if we saw you there!

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Muddy Sneakers Outdoor Classroom staff