RICHMOND, Va. — Virginia State Parks is encouraging educators to take their classrooms outdoors this school year, offering students opportunities to explore nature through a variety of interactive programs.

With 43 parks across the state, Virginia’s park system provides settings for science, history and environmental lessons that align with Virginia Standards of Learning. Park rangers lead programs that immerse students in ecosystems, wildlife and the state’s cultural history.

“We want every student in Virginia, whether in traditional classrooms or learning from home, to have access to enriching outdoor educational experiences,” said Katie Shepard, chief of education and interpretation for Virginia State Parks. “Our parks are living classrooms where students can explore ecosystems, discover wildlife and engage with the state’s rich cultural history.”

Field trip options include guided nature hikes, fossil hunts, colonial life reenactments and conservation projects. Homeschool families can arrange customized group programs, flexible scheduling and attend themed homeschool days throughout the year.

Teachers, homeschool groups and educational coordinators can visit www.virginiastateparks.gov/find-a-park and contact a nearby park to discuss field trip options and specific learning goals.

Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information or to reserve one of more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.

Edited by Dan McDermott