"From Yellowstone to the Classroom: Nash County Teacher Brings History and Science to Life"
RALEIGH, N.C. — Lakan Allen, a fifth-grade teacher at Nash Everywhere Digital Academy, recently presented at the Museum of Natural Sciences, sharing her transformative experience at the Educators of Excellence Yellowstone Institute. This event marked the conclusion of the 2024 Educators of Excellence Institutes initiative and celebrated the achievements of North Carolina teachers who participated in the prestigious program.
Allen, along with 11 other educators, spent 10 days in June immersed in the wonders of Yellowstone National Park. The program, hosted by the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, offered participants hands-on learning in one of North America’s most dynamic ecosystems. From observing wildlife such as wolves, bison, and grizzly bears to studying the park’s geysers and hot springs, Allen gained a deeper understanding of conservation, geology, and the challenges facing Yellowstone.
Bringing Yellowstone Lessons to the Classroom
The program inspired Allen to craft interdisciplinary lessons that blend history and science, bringing Yellowstone’s unique ecosystem and historical significance into her classroom. Drawing on her experience, Allen has connected social studies topics like Westward Expansion and the journey of the Niimiipuu (Nez Perce) tribe through Yellowstone with science standards focusing on ecosystems and biodiversity.
“The trip with the Yellowstone Institute was truly life-changing—not only personally but educationally as well,” Allen said. “I wanted to help my students create deeper connections and perspectives through discussions and research on significant historical events and their impact on Native Americans and settlers.”
By incorporating visuals of Yellowstone’s iconic wildlife and discussions about conservation, Allen has ignited her students’ interest in ecosystems and the delicate balance of nature. Her lessons also explore the economic and political motivations behind the American Revolution, linking historical events to broader themes of revolution, reform, and resistance.
Developing Critical Thinking Through Real-World Learning
Allen’s approach combines history and science to encourage critical thinking and emotional connections among her students. Through studying the intricate relationships within Yellowstone’s ecosystems, her students delve into topics like food chains, invasive species, and the impacts of human activity on the environment. These lessons aim to inspire a sense of stewardship and curiosity about the natural world.
“I’ve been able to share photos of the amazing mammals I encountered—wolves, grizzly bears, bison—and discuss the reptiles and amphibians native to Yellowstone,” Allen said. “This has sparked a love for learning about ecosystems and conservation among my students.”
A Commitment to Professional Growth
The Educators of Excellence program has been a cornerstone of professional development since 2019, enriching more than 60 teachers with opportunities to participate in immersive learning experiences.
Christie Norris, director of education at the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, highlighted the program’s impact: “Teachers are the pillars of our communities. We value the critical work that every one of you does.”
Allen’s participation represents Nash County Public Schools’ dedication to providing educators with world-class professional development opportunities. Her experience reflects the district’s commitment to innovative teaching that enhances student engagement and understanding.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Through her Yellowstone-inspired lessons, Allen is empowering her students to think critically about the past, present, and future. By blending environmental science and history, she is cultivating a classroom environment that values interconnectedness and inspires young learners to explore, care for, and understand the world around them.
Allen’s work stands as an example of the transformative power of outdoor education, showcasing how experiences like the Educators of Excellence Yellowstone Institute can enrich classrooms and inspire students for years to come.
To learn more about the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences' Educators of Excellence Institutes, the Museum's flagship professional development program for educators, click here to visit their website.
To learn more about the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, click here to visit their website.
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Heather Louise Finch, Public Information Officer