California State Parks passPORTS program goes virtual for K-12 students

CALIFORNIA – The school field trip to California State Parks is being reimagined thanks to a new partnership between California State Parks, Parks California and Computer-Using Educators. California is home to some of the country's most unique and precious cultural, natural and historic resources, and a new passPORTS online adventure will help make it possible for students from across the state to experience them.

The new pilot program, passPORTS, will use a blended access approach that combines quality teaching practices with the latest technology to reduce barriers to park access. Using videoconference technology and web resources, the Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students program introduces K-12 students to live State Park Interpreters, allowing them to connect their classroom studies within the context of California's state park system.

"We are excited to embark on a new partnership with Parks California and CUE to provide deep and meaningful digital learning experiences for K12 students and invite them for an in-person class visit to our parks, recreation areas, natural reserves and culturally important places when the time is right for schools," Brad Krey, PORTS program manager, said.

Geoff Kish, vice president of programs at Parks California said, "PassPORTS is an exceptional opportunity for to connect with and learn about California's State Parks from the comfort of their home. Programs like this play an important role in making state parks accessible for all people, regardless of where they live."

This enhanced initiative builds on 15-years of successful PORTS programs with a new combination of digital instructional materials for use in the classroom, as well as in-park use and provides funding to school districts to cover bus and transportation costs, giving students their passPORTS to the parks.

"We believe parks provide deep and meaningful interdisciplinary learning experiences for students regardless of physical, social, cultural, economic circumstance or ability," Scott Shepherd, parks access coordinator for California State Parks, said. "Our work will not only increase equitable access to parks for all California citizens, but in turn mobilize a new generation to play, learn, serve and share in California State Parks."

The goal of the passPORTS program is to provide more students with access to California State Parks through a blended access approach, using both online learning adventures now and in person field trips once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.

"The parks offer interdisciplinary learning opportunities which afford schools a wide variety of curriculum engagement. California State Parks encourages students to learn more about nature, science and history," Shepherd said. "These experiences not only support learning but also build respect for the natural environment and our diverse history and helps students to develop their understanding of California's unique resources.

"Naturally, we want students, as well as their teachers and parents, to discover that our parks are learning laboratories, as well as places for environmental awareness, advocacy and stewardship. But we also want them to discover that these are places to enjoy the wonder of our state. Through collaboration with California State Parks and the K12 community, we aim to develop both sustainable and equitable access for the next generation of park visitors and champions," Shepherd said.

For more information about passPORTS, visit http://www.ports-ca.us.

Submitted by California State Parks Interpretation and Education Division.