Homeschool Science Series

Gaston Natural Resources offers a natural science series for Gaston County homeschool students in both elementary grades (K-5) and middle/high grades (6-12). Programs are held monthly from September-March outdoors at Dallas Park. Programs are free of charge.

Programs run from 10:00 am – 11:30 am at 1303 Dallas Cherryville Highway in Dallas, NC. Dates and program descriptions are listed below.  

In order to sign your student up for this series, please complete the forms below and return via email Erin Hines. Space is limited, so priority will be given to students who live or attend homeschool in Gaston County. You will receive a response and/or a confirmation within 3 business days. 

View the Liability Waiver Form (PDF).

View the Medical History Form (PDF).

Nurture in Nature

This introduction engages students in learning about each participant and the local outdoor environment through discovery, observations, and reflective sharing with each other. 

Grade K-5 Session: September 15th, 2023

Grade 6-12 Session: September 29th, 2023

Know Our Flow: The South Fork River

The South Fork River is a vital water source for many Gaston County residents, wildlife, and natural organisms. Through a broad overview of our interdependence on this river, students will gain comprehension about watershed systems, water quality, and ways they can support water conservation.

Grade K-5 Session: October 6th, 2023

Grade 6-12 Session: October 20th, 2023

Why Be Native? Plants

Healthy habitats are most successful through an interdependent biodiversity that includes native plants. Become familiar with some local plant species and their importance in our environment. Students will explore certain non-native plants and how those affect our local habitat.

Grade K-5 Session: November 10th, 2023

Grade 6-12 Session: November 17th, 2023

‘Mazing Minerals: Rocks!

Rocks form the foundation beneath our feet throughout our outdoor environment. Become familiar with what geologists have discovered about local minerals, the processes that shaped those, and practice identifying the predominant rock formations.

Grade K-5 Session: January 19th, 2024

Grade 6-12 Session: January 26th, 2024

Bugs: The Good and the Bad!

Can any insect be classified as just a good or bad bug? How is that determined? Learn to identify some of the native and invasive species that inhabit local nature and the roles they perform.

Grade K-5 Session: February 9th, 2024

Grade 6-12 Session: February 23rd, 2024

Expert Pilots: Our Native Birds

Using observation and binoculars, students will practice their birdwatching skills to increase their enjoyment and understanding of these “natural pilots”, the importance of birds in our local environment, and how we can support them.

Grade K-5 Session: March 1st, 2024

Grade 6-12 Session: March 22nd, 2024