Fiscal Year 2026 | Quarter 2
February 17 | Lanterns & Luck
Nevada Outdoor School’s Lanterns & Luck program was a wonderful celebration of culture and community, even with cold, snowy weather. Despite winter conditions, 17 participants joined the festivities, bringing warm energy and excitement to the day.
Participants discovered their Chinese zodiac sign and learned about the traditions and meaning behind Lunar New Year before taking a walk around the park loop to find their prediction for the year ahead. The event also featured hands-on crafts, including paper lanterns, dragons, and red envelopes that participants could create and share with friends and loved ones. Through learning, creativity, and a bit of winter adventure, Lanterns & Luck offered a meaningful and memorable experience for all who attended.
February 13 | Adventure Buddies
On February 13, Nevada Outdoor School hosted Adventure Buddies with 12 enthusiastic participants for an afternoon of learning and fun. The group shared a pizza-themed story together, sparking imagination and conversation, before diving into a hands-on pizza craft that encouraged creativity and fine motor skills. The program wrapped up with an interactive group game that had everyone engaged and laughing. Adventure Buddies continues to provide meaningful opportunities for youth to learn, create, and connect through positive outdoor-inspired experiences.
February 10 | Northside Stem Fair
Nevada Outdoor School had a fantastic time at the Northside STEM Fair, bringing hands-on creativity and problem-solving to the event. Using a variety of everyday materials, Legos, cups, playdough, popsicle sticks, and straws, students were challenged to build the tallest tower capable of supporting the weight of a small cardboard box. The activity encouraged participants to stretch their imagination and think critically about balance, structure, and design.
Throughout the challenge, students collaborated, brainstormed ideas, and combined their knowledge to improve both height and stability. One student worked alongside an educator for nearly 45 minutes, refining designs and testing new approaches while inviting others to join and share feedback. His enthusiasm and teamwork perfectly captured the spirit of the activity, proudly declaring, “We make an awesome team!”
February 6 | Nature Investigators Wrap
During this season’s Nature Investigators program, Nevada Outdoor School participants explored habitats from around the world, including the Arctic, oceans, jungles, deserts, and forests. Youth ages 5–12 increased their time spent outdoors by more than 60 hours while learning how animals and plants survive in different environments.
Participants brought their learning to life by designing their own habitats, creating Pokémon-style animal cards, and “battling” species based on habitat traits and adaptations. They also tested their knowledge through a fun, interactive game of habitat-themed Jeopardy.
The CTIC has been a wonderful partner location, giving Nevada Outdoor School the flexibility to move lessons indoors when winter weather made outdoor learning challenging, while still keeping hands-on education at the heart of the experience.
February 5 | Sage Elementary Stem Fair
On February 5, Nevada Outdoor School participated in the Sage Elementary STEM Fair, engaging nearly 198 participants at its activity booth. Educators brought straws, cups, playdough, and LEGO® bricks and challenged students to build the tallest tower possible. The creativity and problem-solving on display were impressive, with the tallest structure reaching an incredible 52 inches. NOS staff enjoyed watching students experiment, collaborate, and approach the challenge with different strategies and competitive spirit, making it a fun and inspiring evening of hands-on STEM learning.
January 24 | Sheep Show
On January 24, Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) hosted a Ride Safe Ride Smart booth at the 2026 Sheep Show, connecting with families and youth from across the region. Throughout the event, NOS staff and AmeriCorps members distributed approximately 30 helmets to youth who needed them, helping promote safe and responsible outdoor recreation.
The booth was filled with energy as AmeriCorps members engaged kids in interactive educational games focused on outdoor safety. Participants who joined in received NOS merchandise, making learning both fun and memorable. Over the course of the event, the NOS team interacted with an estimated 250 community members, sharing resources and building awareness around helmet use and safe riding practices.
In addition to outreach with families, the event provided valuable opportunities for partnership and connection. AmeriCorps members met with a representative from the Lahontan Audubon Society and had meaningful conversations with both the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW), strengthening relationships with fellow organizations dedicated to outdoor education and stewardship.
January 14 | Internal Stop the Bleed Training
On January 14, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Stop the Bleed training in Elko, led by NOS Director of Training and Program Reporting, Meghan Sturgell, providing AmeriCorps members from both the Elko and Winnemucca offices with critical lifesaving skills and certification. During the training, participants learned how to control severe bleeding through techniques such as applying pressure, packing wounds, and using a tourniquet, as well as how to recognize and respond to emergency scenarios where these skills are needed. Beyond building emergency preparedness, the shared experience strengthened teamwork, boosted confidence, and reinforced NOS’s commitment to safety and readiness across its programs.
January 13 | Tread Lightly! Training
On January 13, Nevada Outdoor School participated in a Tread Lightly! training focused on enjoying the outdoors while minimizing impacts on natural spaces. The training emphasized the importance of respecting trails, wildlife, and other recreationists, and highlighted how small actions, like staying on designated trails, can make a big difference in protecting the places we love.
Sophia and Isabel, NOS AmeriCorps Outdoor Educators from Winnemucca, joined the training alongside the NOS team, adding to the collaborative and engaging learning experience. Through discussion and hands-on learning, participants explored how everyday choices can help keep outdoor spaces clean, safe, and accessible for everyone.
This training reinforced NOS’s commitment to responsible recreation and stewardship, encouraging participants to think more intentionally about how to have fun outdoors while caring for the land.
January 10 | Northeastern Nevada Museum Career Day
On January 10, Nevada Outdoor School participated in Northeastern Nevada Museum Career Day, connecting with approximately 30 community members at an engaging, family-friendly event. NOS staff shared photos from past camps and programs, giving families a glimpse into the outdoor learning experiences offered throughout rural Nevada. Visitors to the table received AmeriCorps items such as frisbees, pens, and stickers, while staff spent time talking with kids about their favorite outdoor activities and explaining NOS’s mission and programs. Alongside community partners including the fire station, library, hospital, and veterinary clinic, NOS enjoyed the opportunity to build relationships, inspire curiosity, and share how outdoor education supports both youth and the broader community.
January 9 | Nature Investigators Session 1
On January 9, Nevada Outdoor School’s Nature Investigators program welcomed its largest group yet of 3rd to 5th graders, marking an exciting milestone in the program’s continued growth. During this session, youth kicked off their fall and winter habitat lessons by exploring deserts and discovering that not all deserts are hot; some can be cold, too. They learned about the four different types of deserts and took part in a hands-on sensory activity where they played in sand with toy animals, sparking thoughtful conversations about how different animals might survive in desert environments. Through guided discussion and exploration, students also learned about the special adaptations plants and animals have developed to thrive in places where rain is scarce, building both curiosity and understanding of the natural world.
January 9 | Adventure Buddies
On January 9, Nevada Outdoor School’s Adventure Buddies program welcomed two young participants for a fun-filled, dinosaur-themed session. Participants learned about dinosaurs while taking part in a hands-on excavation activity, digging mini dinosaurs out of special eggs. The group also enjoyed plenty of outdoor play, blowing bubbles and using their imaginations to stomp, jump, and run like dinosaurs. Through movement, exploration, and creative play, NOS created a joyful outdoor learning experience that encouraged curiosity, physical activity, and a love of nature.
January 6 | Full Moon Hike | Winnemucca
On January 6, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Full Moon Hike in Winnemucca, welcoming approximately 14 community members for a guided nighttime outdoor experience. While clouds kept the moon out of sight, participants embraced the darkness, slowing down to engage their senses and experience the trail from a new perspective. The chilly evening added to the sense of adventure, making the hike feel both grounding and memorable. The night concluded with participants gathering for warm hot cocoa, a cozy moment that fostered connection and reflection. Through this hike, Nevada Outdoor School provided a meaningful opportunity to explore, connect, and appreciate the outdoors after dark.
January 6 | Full Moon Hike | Elko
On January 6, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Full Moon Hike in Elko, bringing together two participants for a cold but memorable evening outdoors. The group enjoyed a short hike to the park kiosk, covering a manageable yet satisfying distance while taking in the quiet of the winter landscape. Along the way, they had a meaningful conversation with a park ranger, adding depth and connection to the experience. Although the moon remained hidden, the night sky was exceptionally clear, offering stunning views of the stars. Despite the chilly temperatures, the hike ended on a warm note with hot chocolate, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for all involved.
Fiscal Year 2026 | Quarter 1
December 22 | Frosty Yurt Hike
On December 22, Nevada Outdoor School hosted the Frosty Yurt Hike in Water Canyon, welcoming families for a winter adventure focused on outdoor exploration and stewardship. Participants hiked up to the yurt while NOS staff shared facts and discussed the Leave No Trace principles along the way, helping families learn how to recreate responsibly in winter conditions. Three families joined the hike and braved the cold, windy weather, enjoying the experience together despite the elements. Nevada Outdoor School partnered with the Humboldt County Library for this event, allowing the program to reach more community members and encourage greater participation in outdoor activities. The hike concluded with warm, delicious s’mores, creating a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere that brought everyone together. Overall, the Frosty Yurt Hike was a successful event that inspired participants to spend time outdoors while gaining valuable knowledge about Leave No Trace principles.
December 17 | Sunsets & S’mores
Nevada Outdoor School hosted a lively Sunsets & S’mores event at Highland Park, on December 17th, welcoming families for an evening of community, connection, and outdoor fun. The park was decorated with string lights, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere as the sun set over the park. Families enjoyed gathering around the fire, roasting s’mores and seeing just how many they could make before the night ended. A photo booth was set up and well-used throughout the evening, giving families a chance to capture memories together. Despite the chilly weather, the combination of the campfire, glowing lights, and colorful sunset made the evening feel cozy and worth staying out for. Sofia led Leave No Trace games, helping families learn how to enjoy outdoor spaces responsibly while having fun around the fire. The event created a welcoming space for families to relax, play, and experience the outdoors together, ending the evening with full stomachs, warm hands, and lasting memories.
December 14 | Pioneer Christmas
On December 14, Nevada Outdoor School proudly participated in Pioneer Christmas, an event that proved to be a tremendous success for the entire community. NOS staff embraced the pioneer spirit by dressing in period attire and welcoming the many families who attended throughout the day. NOS hosted a s’mores station that quickly became a favorite, with both kids and parents enjoying the warm, hands-on experience. Midway through the event, NOS staff also stepped in to support the treadle machine station, ensuring it continued to run smoothly despite staffing shortages. This station saw strong engagement, with many families stopping by and several children having the opportunity to safely try the treadle machines under supervision. Overall, Pioneer Christmas was a highly successful event, and families left feeling happy, engaged, and satisfied with their experience.
December 11 | Flagview Day
On December 11, Nevada Outdoor School participated in Flagview Day, reaching 308 fifth- and sixth-grade students through engaging, hands-on lessons. NOS led a Five Senses activity that encouraged students to explore how sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste help them understand the world around them, while also challenging them to rely more heavily on one sense when another was limited. Interactive tools such as smell jars and sensory balloons helped bring the lesson to life and kept students actively involved. Nevada Outdoor School partnered with Flagview CIS, with Mrs. O playing a key role in ensuring the day ran smoothly. Teachers were highly engaged and supportive throughout the program, contributing to a positive learning environment. With favorable weather, NOS was also able to take portions of the lesson outdoors, enhancing the experience and allowing students to connect their learning directly to the natural environment.
December 10 | Winter Wanderwood Hike
On December 10, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Winter Wanderwood Hike, bringing community members together for an afternoon walk through the canyon. The weather was chilly with a light wind, creating a true winter atmosphere and a great opportunity to slow down and observe seasonal changes in the landscape. We shared insights about winter ecology in the canyon, pointing out how plants and animals adapt to colder temperatures and limited resources. After the hike, the group gathered to enjoy warm beverages, giving everyone a chance to connect. The event offered a calm and welcoming space to experience the outdoors in winter and build community through shared curiosity and conversation.