The main program of the SMNHC, the Ecology Field Program, teaches every 5th grade class in APS, as well as many other private/charter schools and those in communities surrounding Albuquerque. A statewide extension of this program is offered to all students in New Mexico to be able to meet SMNHC staff at a natural area (state park, national park/national forest, city park, etc.) near their school rather than traveling to the center in Cedar Crest.
Using the outdoors, this program teaches students about the inter-connectedness of the biotic and abiotic parts of an ecosystem with a hands-on, scientific approach.
The program typically lasts about 4 hours and consists of:
• 1/2-hour Ecosystem Introduction/Review
• 2-3 hour Hike to learn and interact first-hand with the ecosystem
• 1/2 hour Lunch Break
• Time permitting, an additional Hands-On Activity
Students are introduced to the local ecosystem, and the producers, consumers, and decomposers that reside here; through a day of field exploration, observation, and hands-on learning in the outdoors. All lessons and activities are aligned with the New Mexico State Science Standards, Next Generation Science Standards and Common Core State Standards for 5th graders.
The program is free of charge for APS schools, including bus transportation. Those not part of APS will have to cover their own transportation to our site, but the program is free once they arrive (Transportation funding may be available thru the Kids 'n Parks State Park Grant).
The mission of the Sandia Mountain Natural History Center is to work within New Mexico communities to develop an ecologically literate citizenry. The Center is a joint partnership between Albuquerque Public Schools and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science.
60 Columbine Lane