Monarch Teacher Network

The Monarch Teacher Network (MTN) is a growing network of (prek to 12th grade) teachers who have received training to use monarch butterflies to teach a variety of concepts and skills, including our growing connection with other nations and the need to be responsible stewards of the environment.

Voices from the Land has been transformed and now includes a much deeper look into our shared Paleolithic past.  This project celebrates the integration of oral and written language through art and landscapes.  Everything we wanted to remember or all important lessons were told to us in story form for thousands of years.  The Voices project taps into this shared history by having the children explore a natural area, create eco-art with natural materials in that natural setting, write poetry about the artwork, share their poetry through performance, and use technology to become published and to connect to a larger community of Voices projects (Several States and Countries including Canada, Mexico, Turkey, and New Zealand).  Click here to find out more.

Exciting News: Have you seen the Journey’s and Transformations – The Monarch Butterfly Story DVD?  This amazing production was created by and for the Monarch Teacher Network.  The 28 minute DVD tells the story of the monarch:  its life cycle, migration, connection to people and cultures of North America and broader environmental implications. 

Here is what some people are saying about it:

·         It is more useful and scientifically accurate than the Nova presentation on PBS “The Incredible Journey of the Butterflies.” 

·         Although purposely focused on younger people it appeals to all age groups and while retaining intellectual integrity, is emotionally engaging as well. 

·         What an awesome video.  I bought a copy for all of my children and grandchildren. 

·         It is a great teaching tool for people of all ages, challenging people to work together for a sustainable future. 

• Teaching/ Learning with Monarch Butterflies
• Voices from the Land  - An exciting project bringing children back in touch with nature through integrated writing, art, and technology
• Trips to Mexico to visit the Monarch Colonies - Watch Video from Mexico Trip
• A large and growing network of support in raising, teaching, and enjoying Monarch butterflies.

For more information, please contact:  Erik Mollenhauer at erikm@eirc.org or Brian Hayes at bhayes@eirc.org

Phone: (856)582-7000 x 128 (Erik)   x 110 (Brian)