June 12, 2026 | 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center, Kirkwood, MO (11715 Cragwold Rd, Kirkwood, MO 63122)
A professional development opportunity for school leaders about nature, health, and academics. Access to nature boosts student well‑being, strengthens educator resilience, and improves outcomes across school communities. This symposium brings Missouri education leaders together to explore evidence-driven, cross‑sector strategies that support healthier, more effective learning systems. The Missouri Department of Conservation created this event to serve the educational community in accordance with MDC’s strategic plan to optimize health and wellness for all living beings. By integrating nature with education, we hope to provide benefits to students’ mental and physical health that will encourage a lifelong connection to the outdoors.
This event, hosted by MDC and Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation (MCHF), is envisioned to incorporate a wide range of information toward cultivating healthier children, adults and communities by inspiring practical action partnerships within educational communities.
School superintendents, school administrators, curriculum coordinators, principals, teachers, education professors, community leaders, nonformal educators, etc.
Sessions will cover connecting outdoor learning with curriculum goals across subjects; creating safe and healthy outdoor spaces; supporting students with diverse needs; resources for linking nature, mental and physical health, and education; and more! A boxed lunch is included with your registration.
Featured Speakers:
- Dr. Margie Vandeven, Education Branch Chief, Missouri Department of Conservation
- Dr. Maya Moody, MD Pediatric Medicine Missouri Baptist Medical Center and Mercy Hospital St. Louis.
- Dr. Sharonica L. Hardin-Bartley, PhD, PHR Superintendent, The School District of University City.
