University Park, Pa. -- Grade school teachers can refresh or expand their knowledge about ecology and the environment by attending the Forest Resources Institute for Teachers, June 17-18, 2010.  Organized by Penn State's School of Forest Resources and Penn State Cooperative Extension, the program is designed to instruct teachers of grades 1-7 in forest and water resources topics.

"The focus of the program is to provide the tools and information needed to teach a balanced environment and ecology curriculum that relates to some of Pennsylvania's most important natural resources," says Sanford Smith, senior lecturer in forest resources. "Since the state requires these topics be taught in the grade school curriculum, teachers can use this opportunity to gain a better personal understanding of these topics in a hands-on setting."

Bryan Swistock, extension water resources specialist, David Jackson, Extension Educator in Forest Resources, and Sanford Smith will team teach the course.  "The program will feature both lectures and outside activities," says Smith. "and teachers will enhance their knowledge while earning PDA professional development credit."  For more information or a brochure, contact Smith at (814)865-4261 or via e-mail at sss5@psu.edu.

Sanford S. Smith, Ph.D. ("Sandy")
Extension Specialist and Senior Lecturer in Forest Resources
Penn State School of Forest Resources
335 Forest Resources Building
University Park, PA 16802-4705