About Us
We create innovative K-12 resources that build science skills while inspiring young people to connect to local habitats, explore biodiversity, and engage in participatory-science projects.
Who is Cornell Lab K-12 Education?
The K-12 Education Team is the Cornell Lab of Ornithology program that focuses on formal, nonformal, and informal educators. We take an inquiry-based approach to science and provide educators with materials and professional development that support them in helping kids:
- Develop science process skills by asking and answering their own questions inspired by observations
- Spend time outdoors, connecting with nature by focusing on the fascinating sights, sounds, and behaviors of birds
- Be engaged by the real-world importance of the data they enter online that scientists use to understand and conserve birds
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology K-12 Education offers a variety of resources for all types of educators no matter the setting.
Mission
To create innovative resources and deliver transformative trainings that empower educators to build young people’s science skills through nature, participatory science, and inquiry.
We think that participatory science is an ideal way to engage learners in the kinds of authentic experiences required by the Next Generation Science Standards, and we want to help teachers develop this next generation of scientific thinkers!
Values
As educators, we have a responsibility to create spaces where everyone can bring their full selves to learn and grow. Every person deserves to be valued and respected, and we strive to engage in inclusive learning with people of every race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, gender, gender expression, gender identity, physical or neurological ability, sexual orientation, and age. The K-12 Education Team is committed to the principles outlined in the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice.
Meet the Team
Sponsorships
The K-12 Education program is supported by generous sponsors who provide us with opportunities to deliver quality workshops, grants, and resources. We appreciate working with the amazing people at these organizations:
