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).

Beginner Naturalist

During this introductory session, students will get to know their instructor and each other. They will also practice investigation and observation skills as they explore their outdoor classroom. 

Grade K-5 Session: September 9th, 2022

Grade 6-12 Session: September 23rd, 2022

Gone Fishin’

A healthy pond habitat can support many types of fish. During this session, students will learn about local fish species and the pond habitat at Dallas Park through fishing. 

Grade K-5 Session: October 14th, 2022

Grade 6-12 Session: October 21st, 2022

Local Rivers: Our South Fork Watershed

The South Fork of the Catawba drains almost half of Gaston County, and provides drinking water for the Town of Dallas. During this session, students will be introduced to watershed and water quality concepts through a closer look at the South Fork River. 

Grade K-5 Session: November 4th, 2022

Grade 6-12 Session: December 9th, 2022

Winter Tree Identification

What happens to trees in the winter? During this session, students will study trees during winter dormancy and learn to notice small details for leafless tree identification. 

Grade K-5 Session: January 13th, 2023

Grade 6-12 Session: January 27th, 2023

Dropping in on Deer

The populations of different animals in a habitat can be a delicate balance. During this session, students will explore deer populations and practice survey methods wildlife biologists use to monitor white-tailed deer.

Grade K-5 Session: February 10th, 2023

Grade 6-12 Session: February 24th, 2023

Calling All Birds

During this session, students will be introduced to bird watching. They will learn what details to notice when looking for birds, and will practice using binoculars properly as they see what birds we can identify in our park. 

Grade K-5 Session: March 17th, 2023

Grade 6-12 Session: March 24th, 2023