Nonprofit and new PLA member organization Post Pigeon EDU, is using technology to break down barriers in outdoor access, and enable public lands such as National Parks, Recreation Areas, Wildlife Refuges, and more to reach students no matter where they live!
Democratizing Outdoor Access by Connecting Virtually with Public Lands
The organization provides a free program for K-8 educators to connect their students to National Park Rangers and education coordinators at public lands sites across the country via personalized video messages, answering student questions. At the heart of Post Pigeon EDU’s mission is the belief that every student should have the chance to learn about and connect with our nation’s treasured public lands. However, exploring and engaging with the outdoors can be prohibitive for many due to a combination of cultural, financial, historical, geographic, and mobility-related barriers. By providing a free, in-class program, Post Pigeon EDU seeks to overcome these barriers to reach and inspire the next generation of planetary stewards.
Expanding Reach
In addition to benefiting students, Post Pigeon EDU also helps public lands expand their reach. For partner sites, Post Pigeon’s tech-enabled platform and asynchronous video format minimizes the logistical burden often associated with distance learning, providing sites with a metered and scalable way to connect with new audiences. This flexibility allows sites to create meaningful connections beyond their immediate regions.
Since piloting in December 2022, Post Pigeon EDU has connected over 600 K-8 students across 11 states with six different National Parks (Black Canyon of the Gunnison Yosemite, Acadia, Everglades, Arches, Canyonlands, Curecanti National Recreation Area, and Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge.
A Vision for the Future of Public Lands
Post Pigeon EDU is committed to making outdoor education more inclusive and accessible for all. Post Pigeon EDU believes that young people should have a stake in the fate of their own community, lands, and planet AND that the impetus for a lifelong relationship with the outdoors starts with genuine connection and curiosity.
—----------------
If you or a public lands site you work with would be interested in partnering, supporting, or learning more about Post Pigeon EDU, visit www.postpigeonedu.org or reach out directly at hello@postpigeonedu.org. Whether you're a park site looking to connect with new students or a funding partner eager to support environmental education, Post Pigeon EDU welcomes your collaboration in expanding outdoor access for young learners.