HARRISBURG, PA — In a recent announcement that might have slipped under the radar, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn revealed plans to host over 30 educational programs across 24 state parks until May 22. This initiative is part of the global Remake Learning Days festival, a celebration designed to foster collaborative, hands-on learning experiences for children, families, educators, and community cultural centers.
Remake Learning Days, founded in 2016 by Remake Learning, aims to transform learning by promoting creativity, perseverance, curiosity, and fun. The festival is supported by a growing body of research indicating that community-based learning significantly boosts students’ academic performance and social skills while exposing them to new opportunities and life-changing experiences.
“Our state parks and forests offer year-round outdoor adventures, and through Remake Learning Days, we hope to encourage exploration of these public lands,” stated Dunn. She also expressed gratitude towards the DCNR staff for making these events both interactive and enjoyable.
The festival is organized around six central themes: Arts, Maker, Outdoor Learning, Science, Technology, and Youth Voice, reflecting a comprehensive approach to learning. Among the participating locations are notable parks like Bald Eagle State Park, Chapman State Park, Little Pine State Park, and Ohiopyle State Park, among others.
State Parks Director John Hallas expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasizing the value of connecting young people to natural spaces. “Our dedicated environmental educators and park staff are ready to help our youth grow by building meaningful connections with nature,” Hallas commented.
Remake Learning Days not only showcases the educational potential of Pennsylvania’s state parks but also involves various organizations like schools, museums, libraries, and tech startups. These entities come together to offer family-friendly events, most of which are free and cater to kids of all ages.
The initiative also enjoys support from The Grable Foundation globally, the Pennsylvania Department of Education statewide, and numerous local sponsors providing regional backing.
Beyond the Remake Learning Days festival, Pennsylvania state parks offer thousands of educational programs annually, focusing on the stewardship of natural, cultural, and recreational resources. These programs invite visitors to develop new skills, explore nature, learn from experts, and forge a deeper connection with Pennsylvania’s vast natural heritage.
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