For Teachers

Ranger Brian leads a group of students during an activity on the Big River Journey field trip.

NPS/Kyle Just

Education

The Mississippi River is an excellent theme for subjects such as science, history, cultures, geography, reading, writing, art, music, technology, and more. Our outdoor and online youth education programs provide a hands-on approach to learning and start students toward a lifelong relationship with the river.

Big River Art Contest

(grades 3-6)

The annual Big River Art Contest engages students, grades 3-6, in the science, heritage and stewardship of the Mississippi River through the practice of art. The contest will resume when field trips resume. In the meantime, we encourage students to create Big River Artwork on their own. During contest years, prizes are awarded to both the winning students and their teachers. Winning artwork is displayed at the Mississippi River Visitor Center, Mill City Museum, Fort Snelling State Park, and in galleries on our website!