Learning Happens Here Teacher Ambassadors

The Ambassadors’ Program has opened an entirely new world of possibilities for me, my students, and my school staff. It has deepened my appreciation for North Carolina and all it has to offer, from its rich cultural heritage to its natural resources. This experience has been truly life-changing, broadening my perspective and inspiring me to introduce my students to opportunities they never knew existed. I now see DNCR not just as a department, but as a gateway to exploration, education, and discovery across our state. 

- Patrice Wade, 2025 Ambassador

Applications for the 2026 Cohort of Learning Happens Here Teacher Ambassadors will open in January 2026. Stay tuned to this page and our newsletter for program information and application. 

As part of the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ (DNCR) Learning Happens Here initiative, we proudly announce the selection of the inaugural Learning Happens Here Teacher Ambassadors, a unique professional opportunity for K-12 educators to engage with, explore, learn from, and promote DNCR’s diverse educational entities and resources all across North Carolina - from museums and historic sites, to aquariums and state parks.

Rooted in the belief that experiential learning deeply enriches classroom education, the Learning Happens Here Teacher Ambassadors program will equip selected teachers with resources, knowledge, and exclusive experiences at selected DNCR sites across North Carolina. Whether a behind-the-scenes tour at one of our Museums, a curated camping and canoeing experience at a NC State Park, a private Zoofari or animal encounter at the NC Zoo, or participating in a live archaeological dig at one of DNCR’s Historic Sites, Learning Happens Here Teacher Ambassadors will gain an in depth knowledge of all the DNCR has to offer through curated, hands-on,  VIP experiences throughout the year.

In addition to engaging in experiential learning themselves, participating teachers, as professionals from the field, will also engage their own expertise as they advise DNCR site staff regarding how to best meet the needs of today’s K-12 students. Ambassadors are also tasked with spreading awareness about DNCR and the various sites and educational resources they engage with, as well as educating colleagues around the state about the offerings, benefits, and significance of DNCR’s Learning Happens Here initiative.  Ultimately, the program endeavors to provide a professional community of practice for K-12 teachers, enhance student engagement both in the classroom and with DNCR, foster appreciation for North Carolina's rich cultural and natural heritage, and promote a love of lifelong learning.

Program Components:

• Engagement at DNCR Sites: Ambassadors will have the opportunity to explore various DNCR sites across the state, immersing themselves in the diverse educational offerings available. Through private guided tours and interactive sessions, educators will gain firsthand experience of the rich educational offerings and additional potential within each DNCR site.
• Content Knowledge & Professional Development: The Ambassadors Program offers high-quality professional development opportunities tailored to the needs and interests of participating educators. Throughout the year-long course of events, Ambassadors will deepen their understanding of NC’s diverse history; heritage; natural science; arts; and more through numerous place-based engagements at DNCR sites across the state.
• Pedagogy: Ambassadors will share, explore and further develop innovative teaching methodologies that effectively engage students in place-based learning.
• Networking & Collaboration: Ambassadors will engage in meaningful dialogue with one another, DNCR  staff, and additional historians, scientists, artists, etc. - exchanging insights, ideas, and best practices for integrating hands-on, project-based, and/or site-based learning into their curriculum. These collaborative sessions will foster partnerships amongst participating educators and between educators and DNCR staff. Ambassadors will cultivate relationships with colleagues from around the state , forming a collaborative cohort of resources and support, while also connecting with other scholars and professionals.
• Consultation and Advisement: Drawing upon classroom expertise, Ambassadors will provide valuable consultation to DNCR leadership and staff, offering insights on curriculum development, educational programming, effective engagement strategies, etc. By serving as liaisons between their schools, districts, and DNCR, Ambassadors have the opportunity to impact the creation of tailored learning experiences and materials that resonate with students.
• Promotion & Outreach: Ambassadors will spread awareness about DNCR and “Learning Happens Here” through various channels, including social media; public speaking engagements; presentations to colleagues throughout the school and district; district and state conference presentations; and community outreach initiatives. Overall, Ambassadors play a crucial role in fostering enthusiasm, building relationships, and advocating for DNCR’s “Learning Happens Here” mission and impact.

Selected Learning Happens Here Teaching Ambassadors will receive:

• 10 or more CEUs
• Stipend + Lodging
• Participation in exclusive experiences and “behind-the-scenes” engagement at DNCR sites around the state
• Access to DNCR educational resources, including lesson plans, multimedia materials, and curricular supplements.
• Professional growth and development through hands-on experiences, networking opportunities, and collaboration with experts in the field.
• Connection to a supportive cohort of professionals across the state.
• Recognition as champions of teaching and learning, and advocates for the preservation of North Carolina's natural and cultural heritage.
• Enhanced ability to engage students in meaningful, place-based learning experiences that foster curiosity and critical thinking.

Engagement Locations and Timeline

Dates and Locations Coming Soon!