Field Notes
Connecting your lessons to local environmental events and resources.
Brought to you by the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley
Ahhh fall. The smell of crisp leaves in the school yard, the feeling of cool air on our cheeks, and, of course, the sound of sniffling noses echoing in the hallways. If you were able to avoid the unavoidable back to school sickness, kudos to you. What’s your secret?!
While I do not (yet) hold a magical cure for back-to-school sickness, I do hold some pretty great resources to help your classroom thrive.
This newsletter was created to share resources to educators across, and beyond, the Bow Valley. It’s low commitment, which means I will only be sending out emails when there are events and resources to be shared, I promise I won’t start spamming you. This newsletter also means that if you have a relevant event or resource that you would like shared, please email me and I’ll do my best to include it in the next issue. education@biosphereinstitute.org
Let’s begin!
Upcoming Events
October 18-19th- Youth Backcountry Hut Trip
Ages 13-18
On October 18th, 2025, the Future Leaders Youth Council will embark on a once in a life time, overnight backcountry trip to Illecillewaet Hut to explore the wonderful world of glaciers. This trip is completely free, with gear and food provided. The purpose of this trip is to learn about glaciers, their importance, significance, how they are being affected by climate change, and what can be done about it.
On October 16th, before the trip takes place, participants will have the opportunity to attend a workshop by Glaciologist Peter Wray. Afterwards, on November 13th, participants may attend a workshop by local Sculptor Alva Gallagher to explore the artistic world of preserving nature and out memories. Attendees will then have the opportunity to share their learning to the community.
Spots are almost full so email Jackie now to secure one now!
October 18th- Early Years Fair
Ages 0-6
Meet and connect with a variety of organizations and service providers dedicated to supporting families like yours. Discover programs, services, and resources tailored to your family’s needs. Fun activities and entertainment for your children to explore and refreshments for all.
October 20th-24th- Take Me Outside Week
K-12
In partnership with Take Me Outside, please join us for Take Me Outside Day 2025 and help bring attention to the importance of outdoor learning and extending the learning environment beyond four walls and a desk! Register FOR FREE today!
This year, Take Me Outside Day will engage close to a million learners and educators by offering virtual sessions, inspiring activities, curated resources, and fun prizes, to raise awareness about the importance of getting outside and learning! This year’s event features an amazing lineup of speakers, including Dr. David Suzuki.
Looking for more of a challenge? You can also commit to a full year of outdoor learning by registering for the Take Me Outside for Learning Challenge. Join a community of educators committed to outdoor learning year-round!
Bonus: I will be declining all meetings on October 22nd to support Take me Outside Day. If you would like to book a FREE outdoor session with Future Leaders, email now before the slots fill up! Consider combining a session with another class, grade, program, or even school!
In the News
Teachers demand the government invest in our most unlimited resource, our children’s future.
After a back and forth with the provincial government, the Teachers Association of Alberta (ATA) stood their ground and voted NO to the Alberta government’s most recent offer. 51,000 teachers are demanding manageable classroom sizes, higher wages, additional supports in the class, and more. The Biosphere stands proudly behind these hardworking professionals and is happy to do what we can to support. Learn more about the Alberta Teachers Association here.
Resources for you
Future Leaders Resources
k-12
You can’t blame me for plugging some Biosphere content. I say this totally unbiased, it’s great content!
Wildlife Edukits
Bison, Bears, Cougars, Oh my! These free-to-borrow travelling trunks contain pelts, fur swatches, skulls, scat replicas, and books relevant to animals and their place in the ecosystem and Indigenous and settler cultures. Bear, Bison, Cougar, Wolf, and Elk kits are available. They also include digital media and a PowerPoint presentation that can be used in classroom delivery. The education content can be tailored to the grade and learning outcomes of your class.
Tailored Lessons and Lesson Plans
The Future Leaders lesson plans tie the Alberta K-12 curriculum to environmental topics such as wildlife, climate change, and ecology that are relevant to the Bow Valley community. We encourage you to recreate these lessons or contact Jackie and have her lead a tailored lesson for your class!
Future Leaders Youth Council
The Future Leaders Youth Council provides teens with a platform to take action on environmental topics. We merge members’ interests and passions with current environmental issues to advocate for the planet and make meaningful change in a safe and inclusive environment.
Brain Break
Try our Wordle-style game!
That’s all folks!
Have an awesome week!
-Jackie