Teacher Resources
The Forest Preserve District offers a variety of professional-development opportunities for educators and loan boxes for use in the classroom.
Professional Development Opportunities
The Forest Preserve District offers a variety of professional development opportunities and research-based instructional practices for teachers in natural sciences and cultural history. Teachers participate in hands-on learning experiences and receive resources for their classrooms or discovery at forest preserves on their own.
Our opportunities are also open to home-school and nontraditional teachers.
Countywide Teacher Institute Days
County-wide Teacher Institute Day
No Stone Left Unturned
Discover how collaborative efforts are rejuvenating Eastern DuPage County's Salt Creek and uncover how Fullersburg Woods is a prime spot where history and science converge. Explore the fascinating journey of Salt Creek, from its historic role in shaping 1800s culture to its current revival as a thriving ecosystem. Investigate the contributions of Fredrick Graue and the Civilian Conservation Corps in developing the iconic Graue Mill and Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve. Bring enriching, local stories, activities and resources to your classroom to inspire your students.
Feb. 28, 2025
Graue Mill and Museum, Oak Brook
Register here.
County-wide Teacher Institute Day
A Coyote's Guide to Suburban Survival
Wildlife and human interactions are an ever-increasing factor of daily life. As habitat loss and development increases, our changing landscape is well-suited for some species but endangers others. Participants will investigate the natural history, biology, and value of urban wildlife. Explore the interpretive exhibits of the newly opened DuPage Wildlife Conservation Center and discover approaches for teaching your students how to appreciate and share space with wildlife while reducing conflicts. Activities, resources and call to action plans will be provided which your students can use to encourage their families and communities to make positive changes for wildlife.
Feb. 28, 2025
DuPage Wildlife Conservation Center, Glen Ellyn
Register here.
Nature Discovery Loan Boxes
The Forest Preserve District and Illinois Department of Natural Resources partner to offer educational loan boxes and supplemental materials that introduce students to DuPage County’s natural sciences and cultural history. Each box contains suggested lesson plans, activities, books, specimens or replicas, and other materials to create a deeper connection to an area of study. All materials tie into Next Generation Science Standards.
Forest Preserve District and IDNR loan boxes are free to reserve up to 14 days. You can pick up loan boxes Wednesday – Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Forest Preserve District headquarters at 3S580 Naperville Road in Wheaton. For more information, call 630-780-7127.
Forest Preserve District Loan Boxes
Coming Soon — Turtle Conservation