As families, teachers, and students prepare for a new school year, back to school season reminds us that education is one of the most meaningful investments a community can make in its future. It is a time of possibility, growth, and renewed curiosity, and an important opportunity to support the young people who will shape Western North Dakota for years to come.

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At Theodore Roosevelt Nature and History Association, we are committed to helping people connect more deeply with the natural landscapes, history, and cultural heritage of our region. In that spirit, we are currently refining the details of a potential fall 2026 back to school initiative

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Our hope is to provide educational materials including books, interactive learning kits, games, puzzles, educational toys, and other resources that help bring lessons about nature, history, and North Dakota heritage to life in classrooms. By sharing these materials with schools, we aim to support educators, enrich student learning, and create stronger connections between young people and the place they call home.

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Advancing Our Mission Through Education

This developing initiative reflects the core of our mission: to support educational programs, historical preservation, and scientific research in Western North Dakota while enhancing public understanding and enjoyment of the region’s unique landscapes and cultural heritage.

Through this effort, we hope to:

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1. Provide meaningful educational resources to local classrooms

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2. Encourage students to explore the history, environment, and cultural identity of Western North Dakota

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3. Support educators with engaging materials that complement classroom learning

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4. Strengthen community connections through locally relevant educational content

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By helping students engage more deeply with the stories and landscapes around them, we believe we can foster both learning and a lasting sense of place.

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Looking Ahead

While plans are still being finalized, we are excited about the possibility of launching this initiative in fall 2026. Our team is working carefully to ensure the program is thoughtful, impactful, and responsive to the needs of the schools and communities we hope to serve.

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We look forward to sharing more as details continue to come together. In the meantime, we remain inspired by the opportunity to support education in a way that reflects both our mission and our commitment to Western North Dakota.

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Learn More or Get Involved

• If you are an educator in Western North Dakota and would like to learn more about this initiative or explore ways to get involved, please contact us at [email protected].

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• If you are interested in a nature based presentation for your classroom, please contact [email protected]. As an experienced interpreter, Jesse has offered programs to schools, 4H clubs, after school programs, and more. Program topics can include fossil exploration, compass use, animal tracks, and other nature related special requests.

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• If you are interested in providing financial support for this initiative, please do so using this page or contact [email protected] for more information.