Maui School Programs

Just for Maui Schools

Hawai‘i Nature Center partners with Maui schools to offer science field trips at a variety of natural resource locations. Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards, our outdoor programs promote hands-on learning and environmental stewardship. Schools can choose from a list of field trip locations and sponsorships are sometimes available. Request field trips and learn more using this School Booking Form. Program times allow for a 30-minute lunch. For more information and teacher resources, contact Maui Program Director Rachael Taylor.

Fall 2025 School Program Flyer

Teacher Survey

Pre-K

Children of the Land
Children learn that nature is a safe and exciting place to explore. They will discover different plants and animals along our hike, carefully look for the amazing animals that hide under leaves and rocks, dress up for a short “nature play,” and match items in a scavenger hunt with real life examples.

9 am – 11 am

Kindergarten

Introduction to Nature
Experience a sensory exploration of living and non-living parts of the natural world while learning to appreciate and care for nature. Students will engage their 5 senses as they search for signs of animals and learn about different plants in a hands-on way.

9 am – 12:00 pm

1st Grade

Introduction to Plants, Animals & Healthy Habitats
Students learn about the 4 ingredients required for a healthy habitat and how to investigate patterns in nature. While we explore different habitats such as meadows, streams and forests, we will emphasize animals’ survival needs, the importance of food chains, what organisms are, and aquatic stream life.

9 am – 12:30 pm

2nd Grade

Cycles in Nature
Examine the importance of five of the main cycles in nature (plant and animal life cycles; nutrient, gas, and water cycles) while hiking, fishing at the stream, and hunting for decomposers. Discover how cycles are interconnected and how humans are a part of these cycles.

9 am – 12:30 pm

3rd grade

Discovering Wetlands
Learn about the importance of Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge and how wetlands, animal adaptation, interdependence and dispersal play key roles in this ecosystem. Discover the threats to endangered Hawaiian wetland birds and how conservation efforts are enabling their survival.

9 am – 12:30 pm

4th, 5th & 6th Grade

Forest Encounters
Explore the forest while learning about geological, biological, and human-caused changes. Learn about changes that have local and global impacts. Investigate the importance of watersheds through an infiltration science experiment, and suggest ways for creating a better future for Hawai‘i.

9 am – 12:30 pm

4th, 5th & 6th Grade

Oceanic Connections
Explore the anatomy and life cycles of corals and their role in the ecosystem. Take an eye-opening hike where students become teachers on topics of native plants, coastal ecology, and invasive species. Learn about the sources of marine debris and participate in an optional beach clean-up.

9 am – 12:30 pm