Episode #14: Big Backyard: Teaching Through Nature & National Park Travel

What happens when school librarians trade their stacks for muddy boots and national park trails? In this episode of Sorry, I’m All Booked, host Emily Golightly chats with Pre-K–8th grade librarian Dawn Simpson about how educator travel through STEAM in the Park transforms field science into place-based library learning. From stargazing over the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon to spotting banana slugs and exploring tide pools in Olympic National Park, Dawn shares how immersive nature experiences reignite educator passion and capture students' imaginations. Tune in to discover actionable strategies for your school—from hands-on middle school engineering kits to Flat Ranger projects and live virtual ranger visits—and learn how to stretch learning far beyond the four walls of your library! Shownotes: STEAM in the Park website: steaminthepark.net **Applications for this summer's experiences open January 1st, 2027!** Expeditions in Education: https://www.expeditionsineducation.org/ Crossing America: https://www.crossingamerica.net/ US National Parks Service: https://www.nps.gov/index.htm