Special Programs

 

Reservation inquiries for the 2022-23 school year are now closed. Inquiries for the 2023-24 school year will open in August.

Note: Due to the specialized nature of these Special Programs, pre-approval is required from our school programs manager to ensure we have adequate staffing for your group or school.

Class size: Minimum 20 students/Maximum 60 students
Description: Full day programs involving hands-on activities and nature hikes designed to give a comprehensive understanding of a particular science topic. Programs can even be developed to meet your specific curriculum needs.
Tour Times: 9:30 am – 1:00 pm, Tuesday – Friday
Fee: $15 per student; $9 per additional chaperone

Earth Science Program: Students will discover how the Earth’s landscape constantly changes due to the processes of weathering, erosion, and deposition during this hands-on three-hour program. Experiments involving these processes as well as soil composition and percolation will enhance their earth science knowledge. They will observe these processes at work in our 155-acre nature sanctuary during a nature hike.

Weather Program: During this interactive three-hour program, students will discover the relationships between the earth, water, air, and sun that cause our weather. After experimenting with the processes of evaporation, condensation, and precipitation, they will “travel” through the water cycle as a water molecule. Students will make and test their own weather instruments, then explore our trails to observe the effects of weather on the organisms and landscapes of the Arboretum.

Custom Program: Our professional staff of certified teachers will work with you to design a program to meet your curriculum needs. Our programs enhance and integrate your school’s curriculum by providing hands-on, environmental experiences. We can create three-hour programs that are grade-level appropriate, engaging, and fun! For more information, email schoolprograms@houstonarboretum.org.    

FAQ:

      • SCHEDULING FOR A PROGRAM

        Please ensure that your Field Trip request has been pre-approved by your educational institution before scheduling.

      • STUDENT COUNT

        An accurate count of attending students is required before submitting a scheduling request.

      • CHAPERONES

        One adult for every 10 students is required to ensure safety and to help supervise your students. Additional chaperones over the requirement are charged $9 per person.

        The program is designed for your students; please ask parents to leave younger siblings at home.

      • DRESS

        Please advise students and parents to dress appropriately for a nature hike and the weather. Students and adults should wear closed-toe shoes for safety. Sandals or high heels are strongly discouraged.

      • LUNCH

        There are no picnic facilities at the Arboretum, however, we provide a lunch area for a full day program. Half day programs may use our building apron if available. Picnic areas can be found within Memorial Park’s picnic loop.

      • BUS PARKING

        Bus parking is available only from our 610 entrance. Please look for bus parking signs. Staff will be present to assist drivers. Address: 120 West Loop North Fwy, Houston, TX  77024

      • INCLEMENT WEATHER

        Programs are conducted rain or shine. Ponchos are provided for light rain. In case of severe weather, we will offer an equivalent indoor program. If cancellation is necessary due to extreme weather conditions, rescheduling may not be possible due to our tight calendar.

      • RESCHEDULING

        Rescheduling requests are addressed at the Houston Arboretum’s availability and discretion. Rescheduling a confirmed program 0-30 days prior to your scheduled date will result in a rescheduling fee of $50.00.

      • CANCELLATIONS

        Program fees are non-refundable.

      • PAYMENT

        Payment is required in advance and in full. Accepted forms of payment are organizational check, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. All checks must be made payable to: Houston Arboretum & Nature Center. Questions about policies? Please click – School Program Payment Policy (pdf).

      • PROGRAM QUESTIONS?

        Email schoolprograms@houstonarboretum.org

      •