Nature Programs
Science Comes Alive at Principia School
Principia's vast, 360-acre campus provides plenty of opportunities to get to know nature through hands-on scientific experiences. Open to everyone—families, schools, scouting groups, senior centers, etc.—Principia's nature programs are led by an experienced instructor and are aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards.
Join us in investigations and discovery using best field-science practices.
For more information or to schedule a program, contact Outdoor Learning Coordinator Doug Hoff by email or at 314.514.3086.
Turtle Tracking
The St. Louis Box Turtle Project, run by the Saint Louis Zoo, tracks box turtle movement in different areas across the St. Louis region. Using radio telemetry, you’ll find one of our “tagged” box turtles, learn more about their range and habits, and help send valuable data to the Zoo to assist with conservation of these creatures.
Ecosystems
Our campus property is home to a variety of ecosystems. Within a quarter of a square mile, you’ll find pond, forest, savanna, woodland, and creek ecosystems, as well as agricultural fields. How are they similar? How do they differ? By immersing yourself in these special areas and collecting data, you’ll discover answers to these questions.
Pond Invertebrate Study
Our ponds might look placid, but they’re teeming with life—full of micro- and macro-invertebrates. Students of all ages enjoy learning about these creatures. With the help of dip nets and hand lenses, you’ll understand more about the abundant life, just below the surface.