Walking Mountains Science Center
Lara Carlson has extensive experience in environmental education, currently serving as the Senior Programs Director at Walking Mountains Science Center since August 2006. In this role, Lara oversees the management and implementation of Youth and Community Program operations, collaborating with various program directors to ensure effective delivery of educational initiatives. Previous positions include Community Programs Director and Avon In-School Instructor at Walking Mountains, where Lara managed outreach programs and developed multidisciplinary lessons for elementary students. Other experiences include natural science educator roles at Gore Range Natural Science School and Ferry Beach Ecology School, alongside various teaching and leadership positions throughout Lara's career. Lara holds multiple degrees, including a Master of Public Administration from the University of Montana and a Master of Arts in Environmental Studies from Prescott College, solidifying a strong educational background in nonprofit management and environmental education.
Walking Mountains Science Center
The mission of Walking Mountains Science Center is to awaken a sense of wonder and inspire environmental stewardship and sustainability through natural science education. As a 501-3c non-profit science learning center, we offer innovative school programs, summer youth science camps, adult seminars, interpretive programs & sustainability programs. Here we offer: School Programs Working in conjunction with the local school district and private schools, our goal is to serve every child in Eagle County through natural science programs that take place in nature, compliment classroom curriculum and help narrow the achievement gap by enhancing scientific and environmental literacy. Community Programs A variety of courses are offered throughout the year in close partnership with local organizations. From films and speaker series events to Science Behind classes and astronomy, we bring participants of all ages into the outdoors. Graduate Programs and Internships Those who are interested in applying their expertise in environmental sciences can expand their experience through graduate studies and internships where they create and teach courses that connect people to the natural world. Changing lives through natural science research Our educational programs engage experiential learning – techniques that foster critical thinking, and teach the scientific method through the gathering of data. Today, we are contributing our data to a body of scientific research, linking what we are learning in our backyard with research to advance global sustainability Walking Mountains Science Center, a gathering place for environmental learning At Walking Mountains Science Center, we share our passion for the natural world in ways that make a difference. As an award-winning non-profit, we have been recognized for our efforts to preserve our natural surroundings and to promote environmental awareness and conservation. We invite you to join us. Come, explore your curious nature.