Educational Resources

Broaden your horizons—teacher workshops, program previews, in-service training and other adult education opportunities are available for a variety of subjects. These unique learning opportunities address both Illinois State Learning Standards and Teacher Performance Standards. Check our calendar for upcoming programs.

Digital Resources

Stay connected to Lake County nature and history from the comfort of home. We have expanded our collection of digital resources—videos, activity sheets, backyard birding, story times, Dunn Museum virtual tours, wildflower walks, and more—to help.

Take a look at the resources below, then check our calendar for upcoming virtual programs. Remember to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube @LCFPD. And check back often for even more new resources.

Teacher Ambassador Program

The Lake County Forest Preserves and Dunn Museum Teacher Ambassador Program provides a unique opportunity for Lake County K-12 educators to connect with history and environmental education-based resources and staff. It will allow teachers to increase their professional development skills, inquiry-based teaching skills, and connections to local resources and content. In return, Teacher Ambassadors will serve as an intermediary between their school and the Forest Preserves and Dunn Museum, helping to disseminate information about educational opportunities and provide feedback for how the Forest Preserves and Dunn Museum can best meet the needs of teachers and students.

Submit your application today

Teacher Professional Development

Our educators offer a Teacher Open House in the fall and trainings throughout the year. Learn about programs and educational resources for your class, and take part in teacher training sessions with our education staff. Up to two Teaching Training Hours available. Check our calendar for open house date or subscribe to our "Education Programs" email list for updates.

School Programs

Teachers know the value of a good excursion. Field trips and in-school programs give students the opportunity for authentic experiences to learn, discover and apply what they know. We bring both nature and history alive year-round with award winning programs and facilities. Our professional educators work hard to make every program a rich experience. Spaces fill up fast! Learn more »

Educator Loan Boxes

Fort Sheridan | Middle School Curriculum

Fort Sheridan's rich military history and unique natural resources provide an ideal backdrop for studying topics relevant in today's social studies, science and language arts classrooms. You can download lesson plans and supporting photo cards below, or request a complete educator's kit, available for free to instructors of middle school-level students. Call 847-968-3321 or email us for details.

Grants

Leave No Child Inside

This Chicago Wilderness initiative aims to connect kids with nature and the outdoors. Learn more »

Science Explorers in Nature

Science Explorers in Nature inspires middle school students from underserved communities to embrace science and advanced education opportunities. Each year, 36 students participate in this free four-week program. Students conduct hands-on scientific experiments, explore Lake County’s biodiversity and participate in team learning activities. Learn more »

Documents and Forms

Follow the links below to download release and grant forms, and pre and post program activities. 

Waiver/Release Forms

• Waiver and Release
• Renuncia y Dispensia

Environmental Education Resources

• Keys to a Successful Field Trip
• Websites & Resources–Environmental Education
• Lives of the Voyageurs Teacher Info Packet
• DNR Illinois Biodiversity Field Trip Grant

Museum Education Resource

• Fort Sheridan Military Lesson Plans
• Fort Sheridan Military Lesson Plans Photo Cards