School & Group Programs at Pleasant Valley

Mass Audubon's educators are skilled at helping students develop environmental literacy using an engaging hands-on/mind-on teaching approach. Whether the programs takes place at your school, a local nature area, or one of our wildlife sanctuaries, students will experience science and nature through fun and meaningful lessons.

Berkshire Environmental Literacy (BEL) Program

BEL is a comprehensive STEM education program that connects students to nature through innovative, standards-based learning opportunities that empower students to think critically while engaging in the wellness benefits of nature immersion and outdoor activity.

We work with Kindergarten to Grade 8 classes throughout the school year, offering a progression of 8 to 10 in-class and outdoor lessons focused on local plants, animals, and ecosystems, including outdoor field studies at one of Mass Audubon’s Berkshire Wildlife Sanctuaries or natural areas near the school.

Naturalist-Guided Field Trips

Our naturalist-guided field trips usually last 1.5 hours (shorter for the youngest students) and involve outdoor exploration under the guidance of our trained corps of Field Guides. Children are introduced to the variety of Berkshire fauna and flora to be found along the trails. The beaver colony is often a topic of discussion, but we can tailor the outing content to meet your educational needs! The Mass Audubon instructor to student ratio is usually 1 to 10.

Cost

The fee for this guided adventure is $5 per student. Teachers and parent/guardian chaperones may attend free of charge (up to five per group). The minimum fee, regardless of group size, is $75.

Scheduling

Field trips are offered Tuesday through Friday, and are usually conducted between 10:00 am and noon. Afternoon field trips may also be arranged.

Questions & More Information

For groups or classes not affiliated with a Massachusetts school system, please call the office at 413-637-0320 or email us for available dates and pricing. We will strive to accommodate the date and time you request and can customize your experience to fit with your group's mission.

What to Expect When You Visit

Are you preparing to visit us with a group of students, including those with special needs? If so, we encourage you to review this step-by-step photo tour (Social Story) of Pleasant Valley that shows you what to expect!