This project provides training for high school science teachers emphasizing the use of ecological models and field
research skills to convey rich ecological knowledge. Immersion in challenging, real-world inquiry ecology research combined with use of conceptual ecosystems modeling helps teachers to better comprehend ecological concepts,  the research process and important aspects of ecological complexity. We provide teacher training and supporting material, available on this wensite, to use in the
classroom to instill confidence and motivation to implement class field ecology projects. We help facilitate partnerships with local nature centers for meaningful classroom field work. Situating the ecology field work in a community-related context, and using Spanish translations of research protcols will help Latino students to find cultural relevancy in the program.

The five participating LTER sites represent diverse ecosystems (desert, grasslands, tropical and temperate forests, urban areas), and provides a rich body of research and data sets. By comparing data gathered from these different sites, teaches and their students will heighten their understanding about ecological patterns across ecosystems, and how climate influences aspects of ecosystem interactions.