"Even though a student might be hundreds of miles away from Zion, our goal is to spark curiosity and inspire stewardship with those joining us virtually," shares Jorge Hernandez, Project Lead for Zion’s Distance Learning Program.
Zion National Park’s Distance Learning Program connects students across the globe to the park’s breathtaking landscapes and unique ecology. Launched in 2017, this initiative has grown to include interactive, curriculum-aligned lessons for learners from kindergarten to university levels. These virtual sessions break down barriers, bringing the magic of Zion into classrooms and sparking a lifelong passion for conservation.
In 2024, the program reached nearly 3,000 participants across the United States and internationally. Its success has been fueled by live, interactive sessions led by park rangers, with topics ranging from geology to wildlife adaptations. Signature offerings include Carving the Canyon, an exploration of Zion’s geological story; Pollination Investigation, a deep dive into plant-pollinator relationships; and Chat with a Ranger, where students ask questions about Zion and the life of a ranger.
Looking ahead, the program will introduce lessons tailored to middle and high school students, incorporating topics like night sky preservation and paleontology. It will also expand bilingual offerings to reach more Spanish-speaking students. As Hernandez explains, “Enhancing our Spanish programming allows us to share Zion’s wonders in ways that connect deeply with Spanish-speaking communities.”
Funded with $55,000 from the Zion Forever Project, the program will continue to inspire students and educators. These funds support staff, equipment, and lesson development, ensuring the program remains a leader in virtual education within the National Park Service.
Zion’s Distance Learning Program does more than educate—it builds a foundation for stewardship. By reaching students who may never visit in person, the program fosters a global community that values and protects natural treasures like Zion. Every virtual session plants a seed of curiosity, ensuring the park’s legacy endures for generations to come.
