We regard our teachers as the most important part of RiverXchange! We couldn’t do it without their dedication and commitment to their student’s growth, not to mention stretching their schedules and plans to make time for our program. Therefore, RiverXchange® aims to support teachers by providing multiple opportunities for professional development such as: integrating place-based and outdoor learning (through watershed education) as a pillar for science and language arts; developing and improving skills in project-based learning; and collaborating with a community of inspired, action-driven colleagues. 

Teacher Workshop

In order to achieve these goals, we hold a teacher workshop at the beginning of the year to gather, connect and commit to the yearly program. We pay for teacher’s substitutes so they can join us for the day to plan for implementing the program, including the pieces they are responsible for, i.e. :

Last year teacher’s met at The Open Space Visitor Center for the teacher workshop and catered lunch to plan for a successful year.

2021-2022 RiverXchange® Teacher Workshop Photos

What teachers say about RiverXchange®

This has been a wonderful and helpful way to teach about our local water system. It makes a difference if students can see the river itself and know they have a part to play in keeping the Rio Grande!”

Ms. Beer, Cochiti Elementary

“Each year, it seems the program continues to improve. The resources and activities were invaluable.”

Mr. Turrietta, Martin Luther King Elementary

“RiverXchange was extremely successful because my students were enthusiastic to learn about several ways to take care of our natural resources.”

Ms. Sanchez, Duranes Elementary