Our Workshops

Earth & Us workshops are designed for elementary students (particularly grades 3–5) and can be customized to your school's needs and calendar. Each workshop is led by trained high school or college volunteers, supported by our toolkit and curriculum. Workshops are hands-on, engaging, and built around concrete examples from students' daily lives and neighborhoods.

Workshop Format

  • Short presentation: Introducing the topic and real-world examples
  • Hands-on demonstration: Students see the science in action
  • Team-based game: Competitive learning that reinforces concepts
  • Small-group discussion: Students think critically and share ideas
  • Reflection activity: Students apply learning to their own lives
  • Small prizes: Stickers, pencils, water-bottle decals to celebrate learning

Example Workshop

"Stormwater and Runoff" workshop: Students start by identifying storm drains around the school. We show a simple model of how rain flows across pavement and soil, and how it picks up pollutants along the way. Students watch as "rain" flows through our model and see the water change color—representing pickup of dirt, oil, and other pollutants. In small groups, they brainstorm where runoff goes from different parts of the school grounds and what happens to it. Finally, students reflect on ways to reduce runoff or protect water quality on their playground or in their neighborhood. Everyone goes home with a stormwater-themed pencil and a challenge to notice storm drains in their community.

Workshop Topics

Natural Resources

Discover where energy, water, and materials come from—and why using them wisely matters for the future.

Waste and Recycling

Follow the journey of your school's waste and learn how to reduce, reuse, and recycle.

Stormwater Runoff

Explore how rainwater flows through our neighborhoods and impacts water quality.

Food Waste and Cafeterias

Understand where school food waste goes and discover ways to reduce it.

Heat and Playgrounds

Learn how urban heat affects school environments and what green spaces can do.

Pollution and Public Health

Connect air quality, water safety, and environmental health to your community.

Human Impact

Examine how human activities shape ecosystems and what we can do to protect them.

Conservation and Stewardship

Discover how to be an environmental steward in your school and community.

Ready to bring Earth & Us to your school?

Contact us to schedule a workshop or learn more about our programs.

Request a Workshop