Student of the the James

Adventures of a lifetime!

Our education programs enhance classroom lessons by providing meaningful, SOL-aligned, hands-on watershed experiences for all students within the James River watershed. Led by James River Association environmental educators, these programs offer both land-based lessons and introductory paddle experiences for middle and high school students, connecting youth with the river to inspire confidence, ecological understanding, appreciation for nature, and conservation action. Many activities are field-based, interdisciplinary, and use the context of the James River to bring complex concepts to life. In addition, our programs incorporate the rich history and cultural heritage of the James River, exploring the diverse groups who have lived and thrived along its banks and fostering a deeper understanding of their relationship with this vital waterway. We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive place for all students to learn and grow no matter their background experience or knowledge.

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Did you know?

We also offer continuing education classes for teachers and workshops and educational events for adults. Contact Teresa Cole for more information.

Upper James River Expedition 2025

Follow along on the upper James River Expedition, part of session 1 of the James River Leadership...

Top Seven Reasons to join the James River Leadership Expedition

Summer is just around the corner! It’s once again time to start making plans for what to do with...

2025-2026 James River Leadership Expeditions application period is open!

The James River Leadership Expeditions (JRLE) is a year-long program for high school students...

Our Education Programs are Watershed-Wide

Middle James River Education Programs

Lower James River Education Programs

Upper James River Education Programs

Stewardship Action Projects

Paint Out Pollution is a project that increases public awareness of stormwater pollution and celebrates the native plant and animal species that call the James River home through storm drain art. Several local artists have created artwork of native plant and animal species that were converted to stencils.

Cultivating Future Environmental Stewards

See how we partner with school districts to bring hands-on, real-world environmental education directly to students.