Logging into the Forest: Forestry in the Classroom program goes virtual

By Allison Hands

Forests Ontario launched Forestry in the Classroom (FIC) in 2012 to bridge the gap between youth and the natural resources sector. The program connects school and community groups with forestry sector professionals, introducing participants to forest management practices and dispelling myths and misunderstandings about the industry. With the support of our passionate partners and volunteer speakers, we have successfully arranged for the delivery of more than 450 forest themed presentations since the program launch, reaching a total of 13,000 students.  

A wealth of forest ecology and management lesson plans, activities, and videos developed by Forests Ontario support the FIC program. You can check out some of these resources on our Resources page and YouTube Channel!

Despite the challenges presented by COVID 19, demand for the program has remained: participating teachers say FIC presentations both enrich and reinforce classroom teachings.

“Bringing in experienced persons from the real world is always a benefit to a classroom,” said one Ontario teacher. “It enriches the unit, because it brings a degree of authority to what the teacher has been teaching, and shows the real-life applications of what they are learning.”

This past fall, Forests Ontario was pleased to launch a pilot version of the virtual FIC program – logging in and delivering presentations online. To volunteer as a Forestry in the Classroom speaker or to request a classroom presentation, visit the FIC webpage.