2024 Pre-Conference Field Trip

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Wednesday 11/6/2024 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM

Join the Schools in Parks team for a science enrichment field trip to Pilot Mountain State Park. Transportation will be provided from the NCSTA conference, meeting at the lobby of the Winston- Salem Marriott downtown/convention center. Enjoy the sunset (6:26 PM) from the overlook atop Pilot Mountain. See the new Visitor Center featuring natural science exhibits. A catered dinner and talk with park rangers about the science of protecting the natural resources including monitoring migrating hawks and setting prescribed fires.

Meet partners from UNC-Institute for the Environment, the Office of Environmental Education, and North Carolina State Parks. Network with fellow science educators in a state park, after hours.

Maximum: 30 participants

Cost: $18

Schedule

5:00 PM

Meet at the Winston-Salem Marriott-downtown lobby for Van Transportation

5:45 PM

Guided Hike on Pilot Knob Trail (1-m optional) or hang out at the Overlook

6:25 PM

Sunset, then Vans Depart the Summit for Dinner in Visitor Center

7:45 PM

Vans Depart the Park to Return to Winston-Salem

8:30 PM

Arrive back at Marriott Downtown

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PDI Keynote Speakers

Dr. Carol O'Donnell

Dr. Carol O'Donnell is the director of the Smithsonian Science Education Center, which is dedicated to transforming K-12 Education through Science in collaboration with communities across the globe.

Dr. Nehemiah Mabry, P.E. is an Engineer, Educator and Entrepreneur based in Raleigh, North Carolina. His technical experience includes 15+ years as a NASA Researcher, Bridge Design Engineer, and Adjunct Professor.