BEETLES (Better Environmental Education, Teaching, Learning & Expertise Sharing) is a collection of passionate science and environmental educators devoted to improving the quality of outdoor and environmental education. It is one of many programs at the Lawrence Hall of Science, a public science center created in 1968 as part of the University of California at Berkeley. Apply now for the March 2019 Institute! This Institute will take place March 3rd- 8th at Camp Cascade in Lyons Oregon. Download and share an event flyer (PDF). The BEETLES Leadership Institute will build participants’ leadership expertise to incorporate effective practices into professional learning experiences for their staffs. Leaders will model a variety of resources for professional learning and student experiences, as well as provide opportunities for program leaders to share expertise and build their own capacity for program improvement. BEETLES resources are based on current research and understandings about how people learn, and tested by dozens of programs in diverse settings all over the country (and beyond!). Institutes are open to 2 leaders (one person in a director/administrative role and one education director/lead instructor responsible for staff professional learning) from each of 10 selected programs across Oregon. We strongly encourage leaders from underrepresented groups and programs who serve underrepresented groups to apply. BEETLES commitment to you: 6 days of shared professional learning; Access professional learning sessions and student activities that demonstrate and support research-based professional learning concepts; Ongoing support for implementation during the next year (via regular webinars and an online community); A community of national environmental education leaders willing to share resources and expertise; Meals and lodging; and All free of charge Your commitment to us: 6 days of sharing your time, focus, creative energy, and expertise; Attendance by 2 influential leaders at your program; Make and carry out a plan to implement BEETLES approaches and resources in your program; and Participate in Outdoor School related evaluation and research activities Still have questions? Contact OSU Extension Service Outdoor School Team: 541-737-4391