WOLF School
A National Model for Outdoor Education
The Wonders of the Ozarks Learning Facility (WOLF) School is a comprehensive outdoor learning curriculum for students in fifth grade.
Operated in partnership with the Springfield Public School System, Wonders of Wildlife and Bass Pro Shops, the WOLF School inspires and educates the next generation of conservation leaders by offering fifth-grade students a complete curriculum.
Springfield Public Schools
Phone: 417-523-0037
WOLF School
WOLF School Kayak
WOLF School - Shawn talking to kids Aquarium
WOLF School
WOLF School Kids
A Year of Hands-On Learning
Each academic year, WOLF school hosts 46 fifth-grade students with a special interest in the outdoors. This program offers an inquiry-based learning experience where students explore and learn though hands-on exploration and time in the classroom. When not outdoors, the John A. and Genny Morris Conservation Center provides state-of-the-art classrooms and facilities for students to learn with the best technology and resources.
What Does a Year at Wolf School Look Like?
- Water Ecosystems: Students start the year actually in the water with canoes, kayaks, fishing poles and snorkels, investigating water ecosystems.
- Forest/Glade/Savannah Ecosystems: As fall approaches, students begin hunting, fishing and hiking. As the weather cools students are introduced to map and compass, dog training (as it applies to hunting), outdoor cooking, wilderness first aid and fall foliage.
- Cave Ecosystems: During the cold winter months, students continue with much of the above, as is practical, but add more indoor activities including woodworking, taxidermy, rock climbing, caves/grotto, wild game cooking, nature art, trapping, eagle watching and animal handling.
- Wetland/Prairie Ecosystems: As spring begins, students study wetland and prairie habitats. They begin looking at wildflowers and wild edibles.
- Backyard Habitats: In addition to all of the above, students spend time looking at gardening and backyard birding.
- Water Ecosystems: As the students approach the end of school and the water warms up again, they revisit our favorite water sports with a whole new perspective.