Explore how people, places, and things tell the stories of the Lake Champlain Watershed. Throughout this course, you'll learn more about the science and history of the region; engage in field work and exploration at a wide variety of sites both on and in the water; and receive materials and resources to take back to the classroom. You'll collaborate with peers and instructors to learn strategies for building students' in-depth understanding of content, community engagement skills, and sense of place.

2026–2027 gathering dates:

• August 3–6, 2026: 4-day program. Overnight accommodations include housing at Shelburne Farms in Vermont the nights of August 3 and 4, and camping at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum on the night of August 5.
• September 25, 2026: 1-day program
• January 22, 2027: 1-day program
• April 29–May 1, 2027: 2.5-day program with overnight accommodations provided at South Meadow Farm in Lake Placid, New York on April 29 and 30.

Participant Cost: $650 program fee, includes housing during summer and spring retreats as well as most meals. Need-based scholarships are available once accepted.

• CTLE Credits (included): Lake Champlain Sea Grant is recognized by the New York State Education Department's Office of Teaching Initiatives as an approved sponsor of CTLE for Professional Classroom Teachers, School Leaders, and Level III Teaching Assistants. CTLE certificates of completion will be offered for educators in attendance for the full duration of the program.
• Professional Certificate (included): A certificate of completion will be provided with professional development hours.
• Optional 3 graduate course credits through Vermont State University for an additional $435.

Open to formal and nonformal educators in all subject areas and grades. Priority will be given to those who teach in the Lake Champlain Basin of New York, Vermont, and Quebec. Applications are due March 23, 2026. 

Presented by the Champlain Basin Education Initiative, a community of organizations engaged in watershed education. 

Register for the Watershed for Every Classroom Program.