ForestSmart Schools Program

The Understory Project is an educational model that focuses on interdisciplinary learning through the lens of the new K-12 Science Standards and Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs). This curriculum weaves outdoor, interactive investigations/SEPs with language development to boost academic achievement in science, mathematics, and English Language Arts at the same time.

The UnderStory Curriculum Modules for 2025-26: 

The ForestSmart Program promotes the use of school campus as an outdoor living laboratory. In many areas across the country school campuses are the best opportunity to optimize natural systems where green space is needed most. This initiative focuses on place-based learning and the greening of school campuses to foster environmental literacy, native biodiversity, climate resilience, and healthier communities.

The ForestSmart Program provides professional development for formal and non-formal educators.  Professional development is offered through workshops, conferences, and certification programs. Using the outdoors for applied teaching and learning brings content to life, and life to content. This approach to learning is an equalizer in the classroom.  Educators gain field and skills experience using high impact practices for teaching across the curriculum.

Upcoming learning opportunities for ForestSmart Teacher Partners include:

• NC Aquatic WILD Workshop/Certification
• Project Learning Tree Workshop/Certification
• The UnderStory Project Professional Learning Institute
• Campus as Learning Lab Workshop: School Gardens
• School Grounds Research Expeditions

• Educators can join ForestSmart Schools as a ForestSmart Teacher Partner and work toward certification as a ForestSmart Teacher Leader for your school and community.
• Educators can renew or upgrade credentials for licensure and/or complete requirements toward NC Environmental Education Certification at eenorthcarolina.org/certification.

Schools can be recognized as a ForestSmart School of Excellence through the ForestSmart Schools Certification Program that focuses on Place-based learning, School Sustainability, Healthy Schools, Curriculum Integration, and Innovation/Research.

The ForestSmart News provides a direct way for teacher partners to stay connected. ForestSmart news will provide important information on events, workshops, cool sustainability tips and projects, outdoor learning activities, and a place to highlight student work. 

ForestSmart Teacher Partners/Leaders receive support materials each month, including:

• School Sustainability Tips
• Investigations: Science & Engineering Practices in Action
  (Ex: Seed Tracking, Spider-Inspired Problem Solving)
• Reflective Learning Activities for Motivation & Mastery of Content
• Facilitative Leadership Tools to Empower Students, Encourage Collaboration & Problem-Solving
• Special Events

Summer Programs: One- and Two-Day Programs

• Summer Programs/Expeditions for Students:
  - Macrophotography (2-day Program)
  - Stained Glass Art I (2-day Program)
  - Tree Frog Trek (Make-and-Take a Tree Frog Habitat Pipe)
  - Entomology
  - Scary Species Safari
  - Solar Energy & Sustainable S’mores
  
  
• The National Environmental Summit (Summer 2026)
  
  
• Summer Programs/Expeditions for Adults:
  - Super-natural Safari: What Lies Beneath?
  - Tree Frog Trek
  - Radiant Reflections in Stained Glass (2-day Program)
  - Stained Glass Gardens (2-day Program)