Natures Classroom

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Coordinator's Message

Welcome to Nature's Classroom!

I am delighted to begin my 18th year as the Administrator of the Nature's Classroom Environmental Studies Center and my 37th year with Hillsborough County Public Schools. Our flagship program, the multi-day 6th grade Hillsborough River Watershed Field Study, has been a cornerstone of our offerings for over 50 years. We are proud to continue immersing students in the natural world, where they can engage in outdoor activities that enhance their knowledge of the environment while also fostering confidence and teamwork skills. Additionally, we are excited to now offer Auxiliary Programming for both Elementary and High School student groups.

Best Regards, Ms. Karen Johnson

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School Highlights

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Extensive Natural Setting

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Students explore four distinct Florida ecosystems over 365 acres—with wetlands, hardwood hammocks, upland trails, and riverside habitats.

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Broad Reach

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All 6th-grade students in the district participate in the multi-day “Hillsborough River Watershed Field Study,” welcoming over 18,000 students annually.

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Rich Facilities

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Boardwalks: Over 600 yards through wetlands and hammocks | Boat docks & boats: Carolina skiffs for river exploration | Outdoor classrooms: Gazebos, pavilions, and kiosks for group activities | Interpretive Center: Indoor space with small animals representing vertebrate classes | TECO Energy Center: Large facility with seating for 250+, including presentation tech, kitchen, and restrooms | Outdoor Skills Areas: Include orientation course, archery, hiking trails, and a horseshoe field.

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Programs

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Program image (optional): Animal Compound

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Animal Compound

Program text: Non-releasable native animals, including deer, coyote, raccoon, bobcat, Florida panther, black bear, alligator, hawk, owl, and turkey vulture, provide real-life learning and ecosystem context.

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Program image (optional): Shoreline Sampling

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Shoreline Sampling

Program text: Students wade in the river to collect macroinvertebrates, assessing ecosystem health.

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Program image (optional): Survival Discussions

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Survival Discussions

Program text: Focus on human needs—food, water, shelter, space—and creating effective protection.

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