1.
Creative Connections
Itasca State Park Program for Kids
Lianna Koberoski
Program Manager
Warren Wilson College
2015
36750 Main Park Drive
Park Rapids, MN
(218) 699-7251

2.
Table of Contents
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3. Creative Connections
Table of Contents
Topic Page Number
Executive Summary…………………………………………………………………………... 3
Introduction and Statement of Need…………………………………………………. 5
Philosophy…………………………………………………………………………………………. 13
Goals and Objectives…………………………………………………………………………. 16
Schedule……………………………………………………………………………………………. 19
Pre‐Course Information…………………………………………………………………….. 30
Leadership………………………………………………………………………………………... 47
Marketing………………………………………………………………………………………….. 54
Equipment List……………….…………………………………………………………………. 58
Supply List…………………………………………………………………………………………. 61
Budget………………………………………………………………………………………………. 66
Evaluation……………………………………………………………………………………….. 69
Resources…………………………………………………………………………………………. 80
Lesson Plans……………………………………………………………………………………... 83
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4.
Executive Summary
3

5. Creative Connections
Executive Summary
Creative Connections is a three week summer program for elementary students in which
kids will explore the environment of Itasca State Park by studying the park’s history, completing
arts and crafts projects that utilize leaves, flowers and other natural materials, participating in
Service Projects to benefit the park, and trying outdoor recreational activities such as hiking,
camping, canoeing, and fishing. Through these lessons the kids will become more engaged
with, and will develop a personal connection to, nature and Itasca State Park.
This program starts with a first session on June 15th and ends on July 3rd, and a second
session which begins July 13th and ends July 31st. We meet Monday through Friday starting at
9:00 am and ending at 3:00 pm. Creative Connections has a consistent schedule. We start
every morning with a warm‐up activity and end every day with a group reflection. Throughout
the day we have time for multiple lessons, snacks and lunch.
Creative Connections is based on a child’s need to spend time in nature. We believe
that spending time in nature is beneficial to a child’s healthy physical and mental development.
Creative Connections will strengthen their bond with nature and the environment, which will
lead to more environmentally conscious adults in the future. Today’s generation is becoming
more distant to the land they live on with current technology usage and organized activities.
Our goal is to connect children back to nature and allow them to explore and become familiar
with the place they live in, as it is good for their mind, body and spirit, allows them to release
their creative energy and establishes a sense of responsibility towards the environment.
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6.
Introduction and Statement of Need
5

7. Creative Connections
Introduction and Statement of Need
Introduction
Creative Connections is a summer program for elementary students that will expose
them to the beneficial elements of nature. Through Creative Connections, kids will make
personal connections to nature, increase their creativity and physical and mental fitness, and
learn to be environmentally responsible. This will all be achieved by learning about Itasca State
Park, completing arts and crafts projects with natural materials, and participating in outdoor
recreational activities.
As today’s generation typically spends more time indoors than outdoors, Creative
Connections helps kids to rediscover and explore their natural surroundings. As Louv (2005)
said, “Children need nature for the healthy development of their senses, and, therefore, for
learning and creativity” (p. 54). Creative Connections aims to expose children directly to nature
as it allows them to creatively interpret their play into something that may reflect events in
their lives, and it helps establish more self‐confidence, reduce stress, and settle inner conflict.
Creative Connections will focus on nature throughout the program and will utilize this
connection to increase children’s learning, creativity, and respect for nature, as well as their
mental and physical health.
Who
Creative Connections is designed for elementary students in grades 3‐5. Any child of
this age may participate as space is available; there is a limit of 20 students per session. We
aim to accept all children who would benefit from our program. At this age, children are full of
curiosity and have high levels of creativity. They begin to think of places in a positive or
negative light. According to Berenson (2005), an art critic, “creativity begins with the natural
genius of childhood and the ‘spirit of place’” (as cited in Louv, 2005, p. 85). Children need this
exposure to nature and opportunity for creativity at a young age as that is when they are most
receptive. Utilizing aspects of nature in art, either for inspiration or in the materials themselves
helps to strengthen cognitive abilities and allows children to look at situations in new ways. Art
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8. is beneficial to a child’s learning as it provides new ways that appeal to the senses and
encourages their learning by engaging all their senses at once (Song, 2010).
Elementary aged students are at a crucial point in their physical and mental
development, where they actually need to spend time in nature. Nature deficit disorder, as
described by Richard Louv, outlines detrimental effects of the absence of nature in human lives
as including; “diminished use of the senses, attention difficulties, and higher rates of physical
and emotional illness” (p. 34). Children continue to be diagnosed with issues such as
depression, ADHD, anxiety and obesity, and a general solution for these issues can be more
time spent in nature. Creative Connections will encourage activities in nature and may be
beneficial or preventative to children suffering from or on the verge of these problems.
What
Creative Connections focuses on using nature to help children discover their inner
creativity, increase their physical and mental fitness, and learn to respect and care for the
earth. Throughout the duration of this program, kids will try many different things and learn
about a variety of topics. Campers will try canoeing, fishing, camping and hiking, discover the
history of Itasca State Park, and learn about the environment around them by completing art
projects. Children will be introduced to the concept of environmental stewardship and will
complete a service project together to benefit the park. This variety of activities will make their
experiences in nature exciting and will encourage them to spend more time outdoors
connecting to nature.
Creative Connections uses art projects as a form of creativity. Art has been shown to be
very beneficial to a child’s learning, and art created in nature or using nature can inspire
students. Therefore, these presentations can instill excitement in the students and will actively
engage their brains in learning (Song, 2010). Tying in other artist’s work, such as those like
Andy Goldsworthy and Patrick Dougherty, and looking at large‐scale art installations can inspire
students in their own projects as well as teach them about nature’s processes (M. Athens,
personal communication, February 10, 2015). Creative Connections will use nature to inspire
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9. the kid’s art projects. Campers will find their own natural materials to use, as well as complete
projects that relate to the topic being covered to further comprehension.
Creative Connections will introduce children to the concept of environmental
stewardship. Campers will participate in a lesson covering the Leave No Trace principles, and
they will set personal goals so that they may help the environment. The kids will also
participate in two different service projects to give back to the park and the earth. Campers
will spend part of the day planting new trees and plants, and the second part of their day
picking up trash and cleaning up campsites. These service projects will reinforce the
importance of helping the earth and will show campers that their actions matter and that they
can make a difference. As discussed by Strife (2012), children these days are aware of the big
issues harming the earth such as climate change, but they feel as if they cannot do anything to
help. Creative Connections will help kids realize that even the smallest of actions matter and
can help the earth.
Outdoor recreational activities are a third part of Creative Connections. Children will be
introduced to canoeing, fishing, and camping, and will go swimming and hiking. Through these
activities campers will become more physically active and learn what their bodies are capable
of. According to Louv, there has been a rise in child obesity that correlates with a rise in
organized sports. He concluded that children are missing out on unstructured activity in nature,
which is extremely beneficial as it exercises the mind and body, is less focused on time and
includes more varied activity. It is also beneficial to children’s mental health and can reduce
symptoms of depression and anxiety, which occurs more frequently in children now than in
other generations. As children of this generation lead more “sedentary, indoor lifestyles,
doctors treat more and more children for diabetes, attention disorders, and depression. They
see fewer broken bones but more repetitive stress injuries from computers and video games”
(Cleaver, 2007, p. 21). Creative Connections will motivate children to find fun in the outdoors
and leave their screens and technology behind, which will benefit their bodies and minds.
Creative Connections will help children broaden their general understanding of the
world and can help them think about their place in it. Friedrich Froebel, the founder of
Kindergarten, believed that “through nature children would...learn about themselves and their
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10. unity with the world” (Strauch‐Nelson, 2012, p. 35). As children spend more time in nature,
they will make personal connections to it, realize that they are a part of the world and believe
that they can make a difference in how the earth is affected by humankind. Creative
Connections strives to utilize nature as a learning tool by allowing children to connect to it, play
in it, and enjoy it by doing art projects, participating in recreational activities and learning about
the place in which they live and how to care for it.
When and where
Creative Connections will offer two 3‐week sessions during the months of June and July.
The students will come to Itasca State Park from 9‐3, Monday through Friday, for all three
weeks. The summer months provide an ideal set up, as the program will run during more
favorable weather conditions that will allow for activities such as canoeing and swimming to be
enjoyed. This is also a time when the plants of the park come into leaf, and there is more
natural activity present in the woods. The season also provides different options for kids during
the summer when their parents may be working. The length of the program allows enough
time for the children to really become involved and excited about nature, as well as become
comfortable in the setting and with the group.
Itasca State Park is a very popular place to visit in the summer as it offers many outdoor
activities. There are canoe and kayak rentals which will be vital for our canoeing lessons, as
well as a swimming beach. The park is known for the Headwaters of the Mississippi River and
has a place to cross the start of the river as it begins its journey from Lake Itasca to the Gulf of
Mexico. The first stop upon coming into Itasca is the Visitor’s Center, which includes many
interactive displays covering the history of the park. This Visitor’s Center is where many of our
days will start and where we will have our end of session art show. It includes a classroom in
the back, which will serve as a rain location. There are many other historic sites around the
park as well as many miles of trails which we will hike on. Since Itasca is located in a coniferous
forest, fires can be a threat to the area. The Fire Tower is both a historic and educational
landmark which we will be visiting as we cover land conservation (Minnesota DNR, 2015).
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11. Itasca park has many interesting and important features that will be included in the lessons of
this program and will give the kids a more enriching experience.
Why
Creative Connections works with the younger generation to connect them to nature by
using nature as creative inspiration, introducing outdoor activities, and establishing
environmental stewardship. This is beneficial to the development of children’s senses, physical
and mental health, and the preservation of our future earth.
Creative Connections is designed for a crucial point in a developing child’s life. During
elementary school, children’s brains and minds are developing. In Creative Connections, we
strive to actively engage children in their learning by incorporating art activities with lessons.
As said by Frank Wilson, “Much of our learning comes from doing, from making, from feeling
with our hands” (Wilson as cited in Louv, 2005, p. 66). This method encourages children to
apply all their senses to art, which in turn will help them understand content better. Creative
Connections will incorporate much work with the hands through art projects, which will result
the campers engaging in deeper creative thinking and developing a larger understanding of the
intersections of art and nature.
Outdoor activities can hugely influence a child’s physical and mental health. Becoming
more involved and spending time in nature is very beneficial for this age as “natural settings are
essential for healthy child development, because they stimulate all the senses and integrate
formal play with formal learning” (Moore as cited in Louv, 2005, p. 85). According to Louv,
children are developing higher rates of mental instability, and nature can aid in children’s
mental and physical development. Children are lacking a connection to nature, which is
effecting them in so many ways that Louv coined the term Nature Deficit Disorder for this issue.
This explains how inadequate amounts of unstructured play in nature, can lead to increased
development of issues such as anxiety, depression, and obesity. In this generation, children are
becoming less familiar with their natural environment, and spending more time indoors. As this
indicates that nature deficit disorder is on the rise, Creative Connections supports the need for
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12. children to spend time in nature by participating in outdoor activities as it is beneficial to their
mental and physical health, and supports child development.
Establishing a sense of commitment to nature at a young age is important not only for
the current generation but for the health of the earth. Kids need to realize at a young age that
everything they do impacts the earth in some way. This will encourage children to think
through their decisions and learn to make good decisions that will help everyone. Educating
children about correct ways to care for the earth will benefit the earth and will teach them
about caring and compassion. Simply teaching kids about the problems earth is facing is not
enough, as this may make them feel that saving the earth is a lost cause (Strife, 2012). Creative
Connections will stress the importance of being a good environmental steward because every
little bit helps, and every child can make a difference. Children who learn to care for the earth
at a young age may grow into adults who are committed to saving the earth in the future.
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13. References:
Cleaver, S. (2007). Classrooms Are Going green: How Green Classrooms Are Reconnecting Kids
with Nature. ​Instructor. ​117(3‐), 20‐24.
Minnesota DNR. (2015). Retrieved from
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/itasca/index.html
Richard Louv. (2005). ​Last Child in the Woods: Saving our children from Nature‐Deficit Disorder​.
Chapel Hill, NC: Algonquin Books.
Song. Y. K. (2010). Art in Nature and Schools: Nils‐Udo. ​Journal of Aesthetic Education. ​44(3).
96‐108.
Strauch‐Nelson. W. (2012). Reuniting Art and Nature in the Life of the Child. ​Art Education.
65(3). 33‐38.
Strife. S.J. (2012). Children’s Environmental Concerns: Expressing Ecophobia. ​The Journal of
Environmental Education. ​43(1), 37‐54.
Interview:
MaryAnn Athens, Art Teacher at Evergreen Charter School, Feb 10 2015.
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14.
Program Philosophy
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15. Creative Connections
Philosophy
We believe that children require immersion in nature at a young age. Spending time in nature
is important to their physical and mental development, and can help foster an interest and
passion for nature that will carry on throughout their life. As participants learn about the
environment through interactions with nature and art projects, they will find themselves
developing a connection to a place. We value educating children in an experiential way so that
they may learn content, but also learn about themselves in the process. We believe that art
and nature coexist and that nature can be found in art, while art can also be seen in nature. We
encourage children to find these connections and seek out creative ways to look at the world.
❖ ​Connection to Place
We believe that quality time spent in nature is very beneficial for personal growth and
development. Time spent in nature creates a connection with the place in which we live as we
begin to learn about all that functions around us. We believe that it is important to find an
appreciation for our surroundings, which will allow us to feel more connected to nature and
lead more fulfilling and happy lifestyles.
❖ Experiential Education
We believe that education should be memorable, fun, and exciting. As we combine the topics
of nature and art, we incorporate hands on activities and varied levels of thinking and creativity
that help establish a deeper, more personal relationship to the subject matter. We value
personal learning and development as well as experiential learning.
❖ Creativity
We find that providing a creative outlet for children is a great learning experience. By learning
certain skill sets, children are able to accomplish much on their own through individual creative
thinking. We encourage our participants to try new ideas or find ways to make their ideas
work. Creativity and imagination are crucial to personal development and confidence. We
foster individuality and personal growth through student‐driven projects.
❖ ​Environmental Stewardship
We believe that it is essential to establish the importance of caring for our Earth in children at a
young age. Children are very receptive to new information, and when taught early on to care
for the world, they are capable of carrying on that knowledge throughout their lives. Raising
environmentally aware children leads to a healthier planet and conservation of the
environment in the future.
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16.
❖ Physical Activity
In this generation, children may be participating in more organized sports, but they are lacking
free activity and general exercise. We believe that a healthy child is one who spends time being
physically active, but in enjoyable play. We believe that it is important for children to get
exercise, but in a less organized way; with fewer rules and more variation in the activity. We
find that outdoor activities are beneficial for children and give them the exercise they need.
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17.
Goals and Objectives
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18. Creative Connections
Goals and Objectives
❖ Creative interpretation
By the end of the program, participants will:
1. Demonstrate artistic skills by developing a unique style and completing multiple art
projects within the course of the program.
2. Discover their creative spirit by gathering materials from the woods of Itasca with
intention and a vision in mind.
3. Develop creative methods to solve any problems they may come across while working
on their projects so that they may complete them.
❖ Connect to Itasca State Park
By the end of the program, participants will:
1. Identify at least 5 native plant species of the park by putting leaf collections into a
journal
2. Identify at least 5 wild animals of the park by sketching them in their journal.
3. Outline the history of Itasca state park by creating a timeline as a group.
4. Summarize the route of the Mississippi River by tracing it on a map.
❖ Environmental Stewardship
By the end of the program, participants will:
1. Recognize their positive and negative impact on the environment by participating in a
park cleanup/maintenance service project during the program.
2. Show how they can help the environment by cleaning up after themselves and planting
new species.
3. Apply the Leave No Trace principles to their daily lives by interpreting the principles into
skits and setting goals to accomplish them.
❖ Outdoor Recreational Activities
By the end of the program, participants will:
1. Demonstrate adept canoeing skills on a lake by learning basic paddle strokes, boat
safety and ways to communicate with their partner.
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19. 2. Practice safe fishing techniques by following instructions and being aware of their
surroundings.
3. Show enthusiasm for hiking by being a good sport and making observations while on
hikes.
❖ Personal Growth and Development
By the end of the program, participants will be able to:
1. Assess their development throughout the program by participating in self‐reflections at
the beginning and end of the course.
2. Reflect on their learning by participating in daily group discussions on valuable
“take‐aways” from the day.
3. Discover their newfound understanding of the natural world by examining their work
created and completed during the program.
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20.
Schedule
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21. Creative Connections
Schedule
*Every day starts and ends at the same location to make pick up and drop off easier. However,
locations vary by day. Most lessons will take place outside of centers or at picnic shelters. All
lessons are rain or shine. In case of severe weather, lessons will be moved inside to the nearest
building which will either be the Visitor’s Center, Douglas Lodge, or the Mary Gibbs Center.
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Week 1
Park
History
AM Introduction
Sensory Hike
Park
History
Mapping the
Mississippi
Exploring the
Mississippi
Swim Skills
Assessment
Nature
Hike and
Art
Project
PM Nature
Scavenger
Hunt
Timeline
Project
Freshwater Aquatic Life Finish
projects
Swim
Week 2
Nature
AM Nature Hike
LNT
Nature
Hike
Trees
Nature Hike
Birds
Forest Fires
Fire Tower
Service
PM LNT Skits Plants
Project
Wildlife Plants and
Animals
Service
Week 3
Recreation
AM Fish I.D
Fishing Gear
Canoe
Safety
Canoeing
Strokes
Camping
Skills
Ferry Tour
Fishing
Set up art
show
Free Time
PM Basics of
Fishing
Canoeing Camping
Skills
Canoeing
Group
Reflection
Art show
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22. * = Correlating Lesson Plan
Week 1: Park History
Day 1: Monday
Time Activity Location
9:00‐10:30 Introductions* Visitor’s Center @ Itasca
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks Visitor’s Center
10:45‐12:00 Sensory Hike* Trails around Visitor Center
12:00‐12:45 Lunch On Trail
12:45‐2:45 Nature Scavenger Hunt* Trails around Visitor Center
2:45‐3:00 Daily Take‐away* Visitor’s Center
3:00‐3:30 Pick up Visitor’s Center
Day 2: Tuesday
9:00‐9:15 Morning Warm‐up* Visitor’s Center
9:15‐10:30 Meet and greet with Park Ranger, tour
visitors center
Visitor’s Center
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks Visitor’s Center
10:45‐12:00 Hike to Old Timer’s cabin Begin Douglas Lodge
12:00‐12:45 Lunch At Old Timer’s Cabin
12:45‐2:45 Timeline project* Visitor’s Center
2:45‐3:00 Daily Take‐away* Visitor’s Center
3:00‐3:30 Pick up Visitor’s Center
Day 3: Wednesday
9:00‐9:15 Morning warm‐up* Meet at Mary Gibbs Center
9:15‐10:30 Mapping the Mississippi* Mary Gibbs Center
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks Mary Gibbs Center
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23. 10:45‐12:00 Exploring the Mississippi* Mississippi Headwaters
12:00‐12:45 Lunch Mary Gibbs Center
12:45‐2:45 Freshwater* Mary Gibbs Center
2:45‐3:00 Daily Take‐away* Mary Gibbs Center
3:00‐3:30 Pick up Mary Gibbs Center
Day 4: Thursday
9:00‐9:15 Morning warm up* Meet at Beach
9:15‐10:30
Swim Assessment (half the group)*
Other half will have beach and playground
free time
Beach/ Beach Picnic Shelter
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks Beach
10:45‐12:00 Swim Assessment (2​nd​
half of group)
Other half will have beach and playground
free time
Beach/ Beach Picnic Shelter
12:00‐12:45 Lunch Beach
12:45‐2:45 Aquatic Life* Beach Picnic Shelter
2:45‐3:00 Daily Take‐away* Beach Picnic Shelter
3:00‐3:30 Pick up Beach
Day 5: Friday
9:00‐9:15 Morning warm up* Visitor’s Center
9:15‐10:30 Nature hike Visitor’s Center Trails
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks On Trail
10:45‐12:00 Batiks and Weaving* Visitor’s Center
12:00‐12:45 Lunch Visitor’s Center
12:45‐2:45 Art Installations* Beach
2:45‐3:00 Daily Take‐away* Visitor’s Center
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24. 3:00‐3:30 Pick up Visitor’s Center
Week 2: Nature
Day 6: Monday
Time Activity Location
9:00‐9:15 Morning warm up* Meet at Douglas Lodge
9:15‐10:30 Nature hike Brower Trail
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks On Trail
10:45‐12:00 LNT* Douglas Lodge
12:00‐12:45 Lunch Douglas Lodge
12:45‐2:45 LNT Part II* Douglas Lodge
2:45‐3:00 Daily Take‐away* Douglas Lodge
3:00‐3:30 Pick up Douglas Lodge
Day 7: Tuesday
9:00‐9:15 Morning warm up* Visitor’s Center
9:15‐10:30 Nature hike Bohall Trail
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks On Trail
10:45‐12:00 Trees* Big White Pine and Big Red
Pine Trails
12:00‐12:45 Lunch On Trail
12:45‐2:45 Plants* Visitor’s Center
2:45‐3:00 Daily Take‐away* Visitor’s Center
3:00‐3:30 Pick up Visitor’s Center
Day 8: Wednesday
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25. 9:00‐9:15 Morning warm up* Meet at Douglas Lodge
9:15‐10:30 Nature hike Dr. Robert’s Trail
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks On Trail
10:45‐12:00 Birds* Dr. Robert’s Trail
12:00‐12:45 Lunch Douglas Lodge
12:45‐2:45 Wildlife* Douglas Lodge
2:45‐3:00 Daily Take‐away* Douglas Lodge
3:00‐3:30 Pick up Douglas Lodge
Day 9: Thursday
9:00‐9:15 Morning warm up* Mary Gibbs Center
9:15‐10:30 Forest Fires* Mary Gibbs Center
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks Mary Gibbs Center
10:45‐12:00 Hike out to fire tower Aiton Heights Trail
12:00‐12:45 Lunch On Trail
12:45‐2:45 Wildlife Part II* Mary Gibbs Center
2:45‐3:00 Daily Take‐away* Mary Gibbs Center
3:00‐3:30 Pick up Mary Gibbs Center
Day 10: Friday
9:00‐9:15 Morning warm up* Meet at Visitor’s Center
9:15‐10:30 Service Project Planting Trees* Visitor’s Center
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks Visitor’s Center
10:45‐12:00 Service Project Planting Trees* Douglas Lodge
12:00‐12:45 Lunch Douglas Lodge
12:45‐2:45 Service Project Cleaning Campsites* Main Campground
2:45‐3:00 Daily Take‐away* Visitor’s Center
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26. 3:00‐3:30 Pick up Visitor’s Center
Week 3: Outdoor Recreation
Day 11: Monday
Time Activity Location
9:00‐9:15 Morning warm up* Meet at Douglas Lodge
9:15‐10:30 Fish Identification* Douglas Lodge
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks Douglas Lodge
10:45‐12:00 Fishing Safety and Gear* Douglas Lodge
12:00‐12:45 Lunch Douglas Lodge
12:45‐2:45 Fishing Basics* Fishing Pier
2:45‐3:00 Daily Take‐away* Douglas Lodge
3:00‐3:30 Pick up Douglas Lodge
Day 12: Tuesday
9:00‐9:15 Morning warm up* Meet at Beach
9:15‐10:30 Canoe safety* Beach
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks Beach
10:45‐12:00 Canoeing Strokes* Beach
12:00‐12:45 Lunch Beach
12:45‐2:45 Canoeing practice (5 canoes in water at a
time, the other half will have playground
freetime. Switch after one hour.)
Beach
2:45‐3:00 Daily Take‐away* Beach picnic shelter
3:00‐3:30 Pick up Beach
Day 13: Wednesday
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27. 9:00‐9:15 Morning warm up* Meet at Campground
9:15‐10:30 Camping Skills* Campground
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks Campground
10:45‐12:00 Camp Cooking* Campground
12:00‐12:45 Lunch Campground
12:45‐2:45 Camping Skills Part II* Campground
2:45‐3:00 Daily Take‐away* Campground
3:00‐3:30 Pick up Campground
Day 14: Thursday
9:00‐9:15 Morning warm up* Meet at Douglas Lodge
9:15‐10:30 Ferry Tour of Lake Itasca Boating Pier
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks Fishing Pier
10:45‐12:00 Fishing Fishing Pier
12:00‐12:45 Lunch Beach
12:45‐2:45 Canoeing Beach
2:45‐3:00 Daily Take‐away* Douglas Lodge
3:00‐3:30 Pick up Douglas Lodge
Day 15: Friday
9:00‐9:15 Morning warm up* Meet at Visitor’s Center
9:15‐10:00 Short hike Visitor’s Center Trails
10:00‐10:30 Set up for art show Visitor’s Center
10:30‐10:45 Break and snacks Visitor’s Center
10:45‐11:45 Canoeing/swimming/fishing (their choice,
can switch after 30 minutes)
Beach
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28. 11:45‐12:00 Showers/prep for lunch Beach
12:00‐12:45 Picnic lunch Beach
12:45‐2:00 Reflection and Farewell* Outside Visitor’s Center
2:00‐3:00 Art show Visitor’s Center
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29. Creative Connections
Trip Control Plan
Locations of lessons in Itasca State Park:
1. Visitor’s Center
2. Mary Gibbs Center
3. Headwaters
4. Beach
5. Douglas Lodge
6. Brower Trail (2.2 miles) ‐ from Douglas Lodge
a. Hiking on Monday, June 22th and July 20th, from 9:15 ‐ 10:45 am
7. Bohall Trail (5.8 miles) ‐ off Wilderness Drive
a. Hiking on Tuesday, June 23th and July 21st from 9:15 ‐ 10:45 am
8. Big White Pine Trail (200 feet) ‐ off Wilderness Drive
a. Hiking on Tuesday, June 23th and July 21st, from 10:45 ‐ 12:45 noon
9. Dr. Robert’s Trail (2 miles) ‐ from Douglas Lodge
a. Hiking on Tuesday, June 16th and July 14th, from 10:45 ‐ 12:45 noon
b. Hiking on Wednesday, June 24th and July 22nd, from 9:15 ‐ 12:00 noon
10. Aiton Heights Trail (1 mile) ‐ Off wilderness Drive
a. Hiking on Thursday, June 25th and July 23rd from 10:45 ‐ 12:45 noon
11. Main Campground
12. Fishing Pier
Emergency Procedure:
I. Emergency Plan from accident site to van: walk out, assisted carry, call for outside
assistance ‐ EMS, Visitor Center
II. Plan from Visitor Center to Hospital: Head South on County Highway 122, keep a slight
right onto County Highway 122/County Road 1. Turn Left onto US‐71 South. Turn Right
onto 6th Street West, turn left onto Pleasant Avenue, hospital is on the right. Hospital
located about 25 minutes away.
*All staff members will carry cell phones, and Lead Facilitator will hold a radio to the nearest
Ranger Station.
Emergency Contact Numbers:
Creative Connections Program Director cell phone:
Visitor Center Front Desk phone: (218) 699‐7521
St. Joseph’s Hospital, Park Rapids: (218) 732‐3311
Emergency: 911
28

30.
29

31.
Pre-course Information
30

32. Creative Connections
Pre‐Course Outline
I. Creative Connections ​brochures, poster, flyers and ads will be distributed to schools,
libraries and YMCAs by March 1st. Registration information will be provided on all
information items. The deadline to register for interest and receive an application will
be April 1st. Applicants may contact ​Creative Connections​ with any questions
regarding the program and to register for the interest list. Once on the interest list, they
will receive the application via email. Applications are due by May 1st. Accepted
applicants will receive the 2nd packet by mail, which will contain forms needing to be
returned by mail or directly to the park by June 1st.
II. Packet # I:
● Cover Letter
● Application
III. Packet # 2:
● Acceptance Letter
● Value Contract
● Schedule
● Payment
● Medical Release Form
● Liability Form
● Media Release Form
● Map and Directions
● Daily Check list
31

33. Creative Connections
Dear Parents/Guardians,
Thank you for sharing your interest in Creative Connections! If you are looking for a
unique summer camp opportunity for your child, this program may be for you. If your child
spends a lot of time indoors, and needs a nudge to get outside and have a good time, Creative
Connections is a great summer option that is located in the beautiful and inspiring Itasca State
Park.
Creative Connections is for 3rd‐5th grade students and lasts for three weeks out of the
summer. There are two sessions offered for your convenience in summer planning. The first
session is Monday, June 15​th​
through Friday, July 3​rd​
, and the second session is Monday, July
13th through Friday, July 31. Days start at 9:00 am and end at 3:00 pm every day,
Monday‐Friday. The cost to participate in this program is $300 with payment due by June 1st.
Lunches and snacks will be provided daily for your child.
Throughout the program, kids will become deeply involved with all aspects of nature.
They will learn about the history of the Itasca, the plants and animals found in it, and different
activities offered there. They will complete art projects to reflect their learning on different
topics and work on Service projects to benefit the park and the environment. They will learn to
give back to world they live in and will establish sustainable living goals. The kids will be
introduced to activities such as fishing, hiking, camping, and canoeing which will increase their
physical activity and encourage them to find fun in the outdoors. Creative Connections believes
that we can influence the future generation to becoming more environmentally aware and
active to benefit their lives as well as the Earths.
We would love to work with your child this summer, and watch them grow a connection
to nature through our program. If you think Creative Connections is a good fit for your child,
and you would like to see them grow through this program, please submit the following
application no later than May 1st by mail, or email, and we will contact you when we have
processed it.
Thank you,
Lianna Koberoski, Program Director
Creative Connections
36750 Main Park Drive,
Park Rapids, MN 56470
(218) 699‐7251
32

34. Creative Connections Application
Child Information:
T‐Shirt Size: ___________
Full Name First: Last:
Age: DOB: Gender:
Parent/Guardian Information:
What is the best way to contact you? _______________________________________________
Who has permission to pick up your child? ___________________________________________
Parent/Guardian 1 Name: First Last
Relationship to Child: email:
Occupation:
Home Phone: Work Phone: Cell Phone:
Home address: # Road
City State Zip
Parent/Guardian 2 Name: First Last
Relationship to Child: email:
Occupation:
Home Phone: Work Phone: Cell Phone:
Home address: # Road
City State Zip
How did you learn of Creative Connections? Check all that apply.
Internet __________
Flyer _____________
Newsletter ________
Brochure ________
Word of mouth _________
Other ______ List ______________________
33

35. Questionnaire: About your child
What kind of activities does your child enjoy?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
How does your child relate with their peers?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Why does your child want to participate in Creative Connections?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
What do you want your child to get out of this program?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Does your child have any special needs, disabilities, or require any accommodations?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Please list any allergies your child may have, and the extent to which they are allergic.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Does your child have any Medical conditions our staff should be aware of?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
34

36. Please describe your child’s comfort level around water and swimming.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Has your child ever had organized swimming lessons? yes _____ no ______
If so, which skill level have they most recently completed?
______________________________________________________________________________
35

37. Dear (personalized),
Congratulations! You have been accepted to participate in ​Creative Connections​! To prepare
for a fantastic summer experience, we need you to take some time to complete the attached
paperwork that will help both of us get ready for a great time.
Please read through the attached packet and return the necessary forms to the address at the
bottom of the page by June 1st. At this time, we will also need you to send in your payment for
the program. If you have any questions, look over the payment/fees form enclosed.
Our time together will begin on Monday (personalized, June 15, July 13) at 9 a.m. We have
enclosed a map showing the way from Bemidji or Park Rapids to Itasca State Park. We will be
meeting at the Visitor Center the first day, which is the first stop after entering the park. Refer
to the schedule for locations of drop off and pick up which will be different on some days.
If you have any questions about anything, please feel free to contact me, and I will do my best
to help you out!
Looking forward to working with your child this summer!
Lianna Koberoski, Program Director
Creative Connections
Enclosures (8):
Things we need returned by June 1st:
● Value Contract
● Payment of $300
● Medical Release Form
● Liability Form
● Media Release Form
Things for you to keep:
● Schedule
● Map and Directions
● Daily Check list
36750 Main Park Drive,
Park Rapids, MN 56470
(218) 699‐7251
36

38. Creative Connections
Value Contract
These values are how our program will function and how we expect participants
to act throughout. Please discuss each point with your child and sign below.
This will be reviewed on the first day so that everyone understands what is
expected.
● Positive Attitude
● Respect for self and others
● Enthusiasm for learning
● Cooperation
● Flexibility
● Listening when others are talking
● Creative thinking
● Willingness to try new things
Signature of Child __________________________________________________
Signature of Parent _​_________________________________________________________
Date ​_________________________________
37

39.
*Every day starts and ends at the same location to make pick up and drop off easier. However,
locations vary by day. Most lessons will take place outside of centers or at picnic shelters. All
lessons are rain or shine. In case of severe weather, lessons will be moved inside to the nearest
building which will either be the Visitor’s Center, Douglas Lodge, or the Mary Gibbs Center.
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Week 1
Park
History
AM Introduction
Sensory
Hike
Park
History
Mapping the
Mississippi
Exploring the
Mississippi
Swim Skills
Assessment
Nature Hike
and Art
Project
PM Nature
Scavenger
Hunt
Timeline
Project
Freshwater Aquatic Life Art
Installations
Drop off/ Pick up Visitor
Center
Visitor
Center
Mary Gibbs
Center
Beach Visitor Center
Week 2
Nature
AM Nature Hike
LNT
Nature
Hike
Trees
Nature Hike
Birds
Forest Fires
Fire Tower
Service
PM LNT Skits Plants Wildlife Wildlife Service
Drop off/ Pick up Visitor
Center
Visitor
Center
Visitor
Center
Mary Gibbs
Center
Visitor Center
Week 3
Outdoor
Recreation
AM Fish I.D
Fishing Gear
Canoe
Safety
Canoeing
Strokes
Camping
Skills
Ferry Tour
Fishing
Set up art
show
Free Time
PM Basics of
Fishing
Canoeing Camping
Skills
Canoeing
Group
Reflection
Art show
Drop off/ Pick up Douglas
Lodge
Beach Campground Douglas
Lodge
Visitor Center
38

40. Creative Connections
Payment Form
Creative Connections accepts personal checks, VISA and MasterCard as payment for this
program. Your signature below acknowledges that you have read and understand the Payment
Methods and Refund Policy. The cost to participate in this program is $300, due by June 1st.
Participant’s Name ______________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian________________________________________________________________
Method of Payment (circle one): Check Credit Card
Payment Plan (circle one): Check enclosed Online In person
Personal Check #:________________ Enclosed for $_______________
If paying online, please visit; ​http://www.Itasca.state.park.com/creative_connections/payment
Refund Policy
Complete payment is non‐refundable. If, under the circumstance of withdrawal from the
program, amount refundable is $150.
I have read and understand the Payment Methods and Refund Policy stated above. I have
enclosed my payment, or plan to pay online or in person.
Parent/Guardian Signature_______________________________________________________
Date_______________________________
39

41. Creative Connections
Medical Treatment Authorization
Child’s Name: __________________________________________________________
Home Address: _________________________________________________________
Date of Birth:______________________________ Gender: _____________
Emergency Contact Information
Name: ____________________________________
Relationship to child: _____________________________________________________
Cell Phone: _____________________________ Work Phone: _____________________
Medical Information
Primary Care Physician’s Name: ___________________________________________
Phone #: (____)________________
Medical Insurance Provider: __________________________ Policy #: ____________
AUTHORIZATION AND CONSENT OF PARENT(S) OR LEGAL GUARDIAN(S) As
custodian of the aforementioned child, I grant my authorization and consent for a
designated adult to administer general first aid treatment for minor injuries or illnesses.
If the injury or illness is severe, I authorize him or her to seek professional emergency
personnel to attend, transport, and treat the minor and to issue consent for any medical
care deemed advisable by a licensed medical professional or institution. I authorize the
designated adult to exercise best judgment upon the advice of medical or emergency
personnel.
Date Signed:______________________
Parent / Guardian Signature: _________________
Printed name: __________________________
40

42. Creative Connections
Health Form
(This form must be completed and signed by a qualified health professional)
Any individual attending or working with Creative Connections must have had a physical examination in the previous
two years, and all required immunizations should be up to date before the beginning of their period of attendance. (A
copy of the current school physical form may be used for this section.)
Physical:
(Name) ____________________________________ has been examined on (date)___________.
DOB: _____________ Height: __________ Weight: _________ BP: __________ HR: __________
Existing medical conditions? Yes No
Please explain: _________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Allergies: Yes No
Please specify: _________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Is there any factor preventing the individual from participating fully in the program? Yes No
Please specify any limitations: _____________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Is there anything else we should know? Yes No Please attach another sheet if necessary.
Immunizations:
Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis Booster: Yes No Date: ________________
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella: Yes No Date: ________________
Hepatitis B: Yes No Date: ________________
**Please complete this section AND attach a copy of the Immunization Record to this form**
Medications:
*EACH MEDICATION MUST BE IN ITS ORIGINAL CONTAINER*
Prescription medication directions and authorization: (Must be completed and signed by physician)
Is the individual on any prescription medications? YesNo
Medication and dosage _________________________Reason for giving________________________
Directions for administration (routine or PRN) _____________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
Physician’s Signature: ____________________________
Telephone: ____________________________
41

43. Creative Connections
Liability Release Form
I,___________________________ the Parent/Guardian of ______________________________
understand that participation in activities included in the program Creative Connections could
include actions or tasks which might be hazardous to the participant named above.
I, the undersigned, do hereby release, forever discharge and agree to hold harmless Creative
Connections, its directors, and employees, from any and all liability, claims or demands for
accidental personal injury, sickness or death, as well as property damage and expenses, of any
nature whatsoever which may be incurred by the undersigned and the Participant while
involved in the program.
I, the parent or legal guardian of this Participant, hereby grant my permission for the
Participant to participate fully in program activities, including trips around the park premises.
Furthermore, I, on behalf of my minor Participant, hereby assume all risk of accidental personal
injury, sickness, death, damage and expense as a result of participation in recreation and
outdoor activities involved therein. The undersigned further hereby agrees to hold harmless
and indemnify Creative Connections for any liability sustained by said program as the result of
the negligent, willful or intentional acts of said Participant, including expenses incurred
attendant thereto.
Name of Parent or Guardian:__________________
Signature of Parent or Guardian:_________________________ Date:_________
42

44. Creative Connections
Media Release Form
Parent Release Form for Children/Youth Media Recording related to ​Creative Connections
I,______________________________________ the undersigned, do hereby grant or deny
permission to use the image of my child, ________________________ , as marked by my
selection(s) below.
Such use includes the display, distribution, publication, transmission, or otherwise use of
photographs, images, and/or video taken of my child for use in materials that include, but may
not be limited to, printed materials such as brochures and newsletters, videos, and digital
images such as those on the Web site.
____Deny permission to use my child’s image at all.
____Grant permission to use my child’s image in the following ways (mark all that apply):
____ 1. Limited usage: I want my child’s image used within the setting only (not in the larger
community).
____ 2. Limited usage: I want my child’s image used for educational materials only (not
marketing).
____ 3. Limited usage: I want my child’s image used on printed materials only (no digital or
video use).
____ 4. Unrestricted usage: I give unrestricted permission for my child’s image to be used in
print, video, and digital media. I agree that these images may be used by for a variety of
purposes and that these images may be used without further notifying me. I do understand
that the child’s last name will not be used in conjunction with any video or digital images.
Parent/Guardian signature___________________________________
Date: _______________________
43

45. Driving Directions to Itasca State Park
36750 Main Park Drive
Park Rapids, MN 56470
From Bemidji, MN
1. Head east on 6th Street toward Bemidji Avenue/US‐2 Old.
2. Turn right at the first cross street onto Bemidji Avenue/US‐2 Old. Continue on this road
for 1.5 miles.
3. Continue onto Washington Avenue for 3.3 miles.
4. Continue onto US‐71 South for 12.2 miles.
5. Take a slight right toward MN‐200 West/US 71 South.
6. Take a slight right onto MN‐200 West/US‐71 South and continue for 16 miles.
7. Turn right onto County Road 1.
8. Take a slight left onto County Highway 122 for 1.3 miles.
44

46. From Park Rapids, MN
1. Head east on 1st Street West towards Park Avenue South.
2. Turn left at the 1st cross street onto US‐71 North/Park Avenue North, and continue on
this road for 18.5 miles.
3. Turn left onto Country Road 1.
4. Take a slight left onto County Highway 122.
45

47. Creative Connections
Daily Checklist
*Please dress your child appropriately for the weather.
Required every day:
● Tennis Shoes or Hiking Boots
● 32 oz reusable Water bottle
● Backpack
● Sunscreen and Bug‐spray
● Any medications your child must take throughout the day
● Sweatshirt or extra warm layer
Water days: (includes swimming, canoeing and fishing)
● Bathing suit (girls require a one‐piece)
● Towel
● Water shoes with backs (flip‐flops not acceptable)
Optional:
● Hat
● Sunglasses
*​Please do not send cell phones, ipods, gaming devices or any other electronics with
your child.
*Lunches and snacks will be provided for your child.
46

48.
Leadership
47

49. Creative Connections
Position Title: Counselor
Number of Positions: 4
Dates of Position:
Staff training: June 8th, 2015 ‐ June 13th, 2015 (mandatory for all staff)
Program: June 15th‐ July 3rd and July 11th ‐ August 1st, 2015
Supervisor: Program Director, Lead Facilitator
Job Description:
As a Counselor for Creative Connections, you will work directly with the campers and
the Lead Facilitator. You will assist in teaching lesson plans, gather materials for lessons, and
provide supervision for the campers. If you enjoy spending time with kids and being outdoors,
this is a great job for you. You will be outside every day helping to teach the kids about arts and
crafts, Itasca State Park, and outdoor recreational activities. Good Communication skills and
experience in all areas are preferred.
Specific Responsibilities:
● Assist Lead Facilitator with lessons
● Keep kids controlled and with the group
● Settle conflicts and work individually with kids
● Supervise kids around water
● Assist kids in learning to canoe and fish
● Assist kids with arts and crafts projects
Specific Qualifications:
● CPR/First Aid training, Preferred Lifeguard
● Minimum age 18, preferred 1 year of college
● Enjoy spending time outdoors, Fishing and canoeing experience preferred
● Interest in education, ODL/ Education major preferred
● Must possess a valid drivers license and have a clean driving record
Benefits:
Salary = $2,000
Possible housing options available in the Park
Great teaching experience and a summer of working in a beautiful park with professionals
48

50.
Schedule:
Staff Training:
Must arrive by noon, Monday June 8th, 2015.
Monday will be a get‐situated, gear check and pack day.
Tuesday at 9:00 am, leave for canoe trip
Thursday evening arrive back from canoe trip
Friday: Training Sessions
Saturday: Exploration of the Park
Sunday: off
Program:
Monday‐Friday: First session June 15th, ends July 3rd.
Saturdays and Sundays off during the session.
After first session, you will have Saturday through Saturday off, and use Sunday for preparation.
Second Session begins July 13th, ends July 31
Saturday after second session will be used for any clean‐up, paychecks, and evaluations.
49

51. Creative Connections
Position Title: Lead Facilitator
Number of Positions: 1
Dates of Position:
Leadership Training: June 1st‐June 5th, 2015 (Mandatory for Lead Facilitator)
Staff Training: June 8th‐ June 13th, 2015 (Mandatory for all staff)
Program: June 15th‐ July 3rd and July 11th ‐ August 1st, 2015
Supervisor: Program Director
Job Description:
As Lead Facilitator for Creative Connections, you will be facilitating all lessons throughout the
program and working directly with the kids and the counselors. You will teach lessons, lead
hikes, facilitate reflections and present nature as a wonderful place to spend time for the kids.
You will teach lessons on arts and crafts, plants and animals, park history, canoeing, fishing,
camping, and lead service projects. You will work directly with Park Rangers of Itasca to
incorporate them into the lessons and participate in the program. You will work with the
Program Director to plan, and evaluate the program to enhance future sessions.
Specific Responsibilities:
● Facilitate lessons of varied activities to elementary age kids
● Facilitate group hikes, reflections and discussions
● Ensure safety of participants around water and while outdoors
● Assist in leading staff training and canoe expedition
● Communicate thoughtfully with participant’s parents about the progress of their child
● Work with the Program Director to evaluate the program and make improvements
Specific Qualifications:
● Lifeguard/CPR/First Aid training, preferred WFR
● Bachelors Degree in ODL or Environmental Education
● Experience in teaching Arts and Crafts, Canoeing, Fishing, and Camping
● 2 years of relevant experience
● Must possess a valid driver’s license and have a clean driving record
Benefits: Salary = $4,000 for the summer
Possible housing options in the Park
Gain experience working with kids
50

52. Schedule:
Training:
Must arrive by noon on June 1st
Mon‐Friday will be intensive training on lessons and facilitation.
Staff training will be held Monday June 8th‐ Saturday June 13th.
Program:
Monday June 15th‐ July 3rd is the first session, and July 11th ‐ August 1st, 2015 is the second
session.
The week in between sessions will be spent evaluating, planning and preparing for the second
session.
You will have most weekends off.
51

53. Creative Connections
Position Title: Program Director
Number of Positions: 1
Dates of Position: January 1st ‐ September 1st, Full time
Supervisor: Executive Director
Job Description:
Program Director for Creative Connections is a full time permanent position, reporting to the
Executive Director. As Program Director, you will be responsible for the development and
implementation of this outdoor experiential learning program. You will be in charge of the
marketing, budgeting, planning and implementation of the program, and will work pre‐season
on these items. You will hire staff members and work directly with them throughout the
duration of the program. After the end of program, you will work to evaluate and improve the
program for future sessions.
Specific Responsibilities:
● Market Creative Connections to gain interest and new participants for each summer
● Recruit, interview, hire, oversee, and train new programming staff
● Develop, implement and manage the Experiential Education aspects of the program
● Organize and implement all curriculum and materials for program
● Maintain permits, registrations and teaching tools
● Budget the program
● Communicate with Itasca State Park staff to implement program and utilize their
resources
Specific Qualifications:
● Degree in Environmental Education, Outdoor Leadership, Education or related field
● Ability to supervise, guide and oversee staff as shown from previous experience
● Must have strong leadership, supervision, teaching and program management skills
● Experience in teaching elementary age students and working with young adults
● Ability to organize and implement an active, hands on outdoor environmental education
program
● A passion for teaching kids, nature, outdoor activities and arts and crafts
● Strong oral communication skills
● Lifeguard certification, CPR/First Aid/AED, preferred WFR certification.
● Must have a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
52

54.
Benefits: Salary = $32,000 a year
September ‐ December off
Spend the summer months in the beautiful park of Itasca
Schedule:
This is a full time position beginning in January and ending in August.
Will begin work in January with marketing strategies.
You will have September‐December off.
Program dates are:
June 15​th​
through Friday, July 3​rd​
and Monday, July 13th through Friday, July 31st.
53

55.
Marketing
54

56. Creative Connections
Marketing Plan
Dates of program:
Session 1: Monday, June 15​th​
through Friday, July 3​rd​
.
Session 1: Monday, July 13​th​
through Friday, July 31​st​
.
Audience:​ Parents, teachers, students, legal guardians
Goal of Marketing​: Creative Connections goal is to utilize a variety of marketing techniques to
reach the parents, teachers, and children who would be interested in our program. We are
getting the word out to as many 3​rd​
‐5​th​
grade students as we can, so that our participants are
children who may be spending too much time indoors and are looking for a reason to get
outside.
Strategy Statement:​ Creative Connections plans on using multiple strategies to market our
program. We will distribute flyers and brochures to elementary schools, libraries, and the
YMCA to reach elementary age children and their parents. These will be placed around Itasca
State Park so that visitors may hear of it while enjoying the park and become more interested.
Because the park attracts many visitors, this will help spread the word. We will target local
newsletters in schools, Itasca State Park and the Bemidji/Park Rapids Community Education
Summer Program. These newsletters are intended for younger children and will help them and
their parents plan their summers.
​Marketing Plan
Strategy Action: ​Place description and information on the Park website under
“Education/Safety” and “Kids Outdoors”
Goal: ​20 participants per summer session. There are two sessions per
summer.
Timeline:
1/1/15: Begin draft of program description and info.
1/15/15: Review program ad.
1/30/15: Post program ad to Park Webpage
Measurement: ​Qualitative: through a question on our program evaluation
form asking how participants found out about Creative Connections
Internet
Flyers Action: ​Create 200 flyers to put up on signs around Itasca State Park. Also
put them up in local elementary schools, libraries, and the YMCA of both
Park Rapids and Bemidji.
55

57. Goal: ​20 participants per summer session. There are two sessions per
summer.
Timeline:
2/1/15: Begin flyer design
2/15/15: Review Flyer design
3/1/15: Finalize, print and post flyers
Measurement: ​Qualitative: Through a question on our program evaluation
form asking how participants found about Creative Connections
Newsletters Action: ​Put a description of Creative Connections and sign‐up information
in school newsletters, the Park newsletter, and Community Education
Summer newsletter.
Goal: ​20 participants per summer session. There are two sessions per
summer.
Timeline:
1/1/15: Search for newsletters to place ad in, and begin designing ad.
1/20/15: Review advertisement
2/1/15: Finalize advertisement and submit to newsletters in time for their
spring/summer editions.
Measurement: ​Qualitative: Through a question on our program
evaluation form asking how participants found about Creative Connections
Brochure Action: ​Create 200 brochures to be placed in displays around Itasca State
Park. These brochures will also be distributed to local elementary schools
to be sent home with kids, as well as placed in libraries and the YMCA of
Park Rapids and Bemidji.
Goal: ​20 participants per summer session. There are two sessions per
summer.
Timeline:
2/1/15: Begin brochure design
2/20/15: Review brochure design
3/1/15: Finalize, print and distribute brochures
Measurement: ​Qualitative: Through a question on our program
evaluation form asking how participants found about Creative Connections
Word of
Mouth
Action: ​Word of Creative Connections will spread as Visitors to Itasca will
learn about it through our flyers and brochures, and information will be
distributed widely.
56

58. Goal: ​20 participants per summer session. There are two sessions per
summer.
Timeline: ​year‐round
Measurement: ​Qualitative and quantitative.
Public
Presentation
Action: ​Present program information to a public audience to get the word
out about Creative Connections.
Goal: ​20 participants per summer session. There are two sessions per
summer.
Timeline:
3/1/15: Begin work on presentation
3/9/15: Present
Measurement: ​Quantitative: By how many people show up for the
presentation.
T‐Shirts Action: ​Distribute T‐shirts to staff and participants of program as a way to
advertise.
Goal: ​20 participants per summer session. There are two sessions per
summer.
Timeline:
3/1/15: Begin T‐shirt Design
4/1/15: Finalize T‐shirt Design
5/1/15: Submit T‐shirt Order
Measurement: ​Qualitative: Through a question on our program evaluation
form asking how participants found about Creative Connections
57

59.
Equipment List
58

60. Creative Connections
Equipment
Item Quantity Unit Price Total
Fishing Poles 24 $13.00 $312.00
Canoes (rental) 12 $45 per day x 3 days x 2
sessions
$3,240
Paddles (provided with
canoe rental)
24 $0.00 $0.00
Life Jackets 24 $15.00 $360.00
Tents 5 $40.00 $200.00
Camping Stoves 2 $40.00 $80.00
Shovels 24 $25.00 $600.00
Display Easel 1 $35.00 $35.00
Binoculars 20 $25.00 $500.00
MN Bird Field Guide 10 $15.00 $150.00
Screwdrivers 10 $4.00 $40.00
MN Fish Field Guide 10 $15.00 $150.00
Dissecting Tool Kit 1 set $10.00 $10.00
Dissection Pan 1 $20.00 $20.00
Iron 1 $25.00 $25.00
MN Tree Field Guide 5 $15.00 $75.00
Ironing Board 1 $40.00 $40.00
Tweezers 10 $3.00 $30.00
Kids Gardening Gloves 20 pairs $7.00 $140.00
Watering Hose 1 $25.00 $25.00
59

61. Rakes 8 $15.00 $120.00
Wheelbarrows 4 $35.00 $140.00
MN Wildlife Field Guide 10 $15.00 $150.00
Square Electric Skillet 3 $30.00 $90.00
Rubber Aprons 6 $15.00 $90.00
Plastic Tubs for Dye 3 $15.00 $45.00
Pot with lid (4 qt) 2 $12.00 $24.00
Frying Pan 1 $25.00 $25.00
Stirring Spoons 1 set of 3 $7.00 $7.00
Cutting Board 1 $15.00 $15.00
Garlic Press 1 $10.00 $10.00
Bread Knife 1 $10.00 $10.00
Oven Mitts 2 pairs $12.00 $24.00
Bear Bag 1 $30.00 $30.00
Hand shovel 2 $5.00 $10.00
Apple Cutter 1 $10.00 $10.00
Grand Total: $7,202
60

62.
Supply List
61

63. Creative Connections
Supply List
Item Quantity Unit Price Total
Sets of 10 Markers 10 $4.00 $40.00
Boxes of 24 colored
Pencils
10 $3.00 $30.00
Boxes of 24 Crayons 10 $4.00 $40.00
Composition Journals 20 $4.00 $80.00
Poster Boards 22x28” 10 $1.00 $10.00
Fishing Hooks 50 $0.10 $5.00
Bobbers 30 3 for $1.00 $10.00
Fishing Weights 1 bag of 540 $10.00 $10.00
Fishing Line 1 spool $8.00 $8.00
Needle Nose Pliers 5 $4.00 $20.00
AquaMira 3 packages $8.00 $24.00
Air dry Clay 6 tubs (2.5 lbs each) $4.00 $24.00
Shoe box lids 20 free free
Clay saucers 5”x4” 20 $2.00 $40.00
Pens 1 box of 60 $4.00 $4.00
Pencils 1 box of 30 $5.00 $5.00
Large Notepad
27x34”
2 $32.00 $64.00
Long paper 48” wide
x 200’
1 roll $17.00 $17.00
Clipboards 20 $1.00 $20.00
Whistles 1 pack of 10 $4.00 $4.00
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64. Scotch Tape pack of 3 rolls $2.00 $2.00
Clothespins 1 pack of 100 $7.00 $7.00
Tin Cans 12 free free
White cotton
bandanas
20 $0.49 $10.00
Envelopes 1 box of 40 $3.00 $3.00
Paraffin Blocks 6 lbs $25.50 $25.50
Acrylic Yarn 2 skeins $3.00 $6.00
Stirring Sticks 1 pack of 50 $3.50 $3.50
Rubber Gloves 6 pairs $2.00 $12.00
S&S Worldwide Cold
water dye
assorted colors $37.00 $37.00
Clothesline 200 ft 1 $10.00 $10.00
Paint Brushes 1 bag of 24 $6.00 $6.00
Blindfolds 20 $0.91 $19.00
Diamond Braid Rope
100 ft
1 $9.00 $9.00
Birdhouse Gourds 20 $3.00 $60.00
Tempera paint 1 box assorted pack
of 12
$30.00 $30.00
Aluminum Paint Pans 20 $0.33 $7.00
Scissors 20 $4.00 $80.00
Perch for dissection 1 $5.00 $5.00
White Paper Towels 1 roll $2.00 $2.00
Wax Paper 1 roll $5.00 $5.00
Flowers 2 bunches free free
63

65. Glue 10 bottles $4.30 $43.00
9 x12” Tagboard 1 pack of 100 $11.30 $11.30
Double Stick Tape 1 pack of 3 $5.00 $5.00
Tree Seedlings 10 $7.00 $70.00
Wooden Stakes 1 pack of 30 $15.00 $15.00
Twine 1 ball $40.00 $40.00
Garbage Bags 1 box of 40 $8.00 $8.00
Plastic containers 10 recycled free
Mason jar rims 20 $0.41 $8.50
Plaster of paris 1 tub of 8 lbs $11.00 $11.00
Marking Flags 1 bundle of 100 $7.00 $7.00
Crisco Spray 2 cans $7.50 $15.00
Permanent marker 1 pack of 5 $4.30 $4.30
5x8” notecards 1 pack of 100 $7.00 $7.00
Matches 1 box $4.00 $4.00
Firewood 2 bundles $5.00 $10.00
Peanut Butter 2 jars $3.00 $6.00
Baby Carrots 2 lbs $4.00 $4.00
Spaghetti Noodles 2 boxes $2.00 $4.00
French Bread 4 loaves $1.50 $6.00
Garlic 2 cloves $1.00 $2.00
Butter 1 box $5.00 $5.00
Tomato Sauce 2 jars $3.00 $6.00
Mac’n’cheese mix 2 boxes $5.00 $10.00
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66. Ground Beef 2 lbs $6.00 $12.00
Apples 2 bags of 12 $4.00 $8.00
Marshmallows 1 bag $2.00 $2.00
Graham Crackers 1 box $3.00 $3.00
Hershey’s Chocolate 1 package of 6 bars $3.00 $3.00
Aluminum Foil 1 roll $5.00 $5.00
Estimated Total cost: $1,129.10
65

67.
Budget
66

68.
Creative Connections
Budget
Salaries:
Program Director annual
Main Facilitator
($12/hour x 8 hours a day for 15 days,
2 sessions)
2 weeks of training pre‐camp
Counselors x 4
($9/hour x 8 hours a day for 16 days,
2 sessions)
1 week of training pre‐camp
$32,000
$2,520
$1,500
$4,020
$1,890
$110
$2,000x4 = 8,000
$44,020
Travel:
Van Rental (2) (transport around park)
$90/per day x 15 days, 2 sessions
Gas
$2.50/gallon = $82.50 for 1 tank
33 miles driving per session
$5,400
$330
$5,730
Food:
$7/person per day x 15 days, 2
sessions
20 participants plus 5 staff
$2,625
$5,250
Equipment:
See Equipment List
$7,202
$7,202
Supplies:
See Supply List, 2 sessions
$1,129.10
$2,258.20
Fees:
Fishing License for staff
$22 per person x 5 staff
Canoe Registration
$10.50 per canoe x 12 canoes
$110
$126
$236
Insurance:
Liability:
Workman’s Comp: 5% gross payroll
$2,000
$2,201
$4,201
Sub Total: $68,897.20
67

69. Promotion:
10% of Subtotal
$6,889.72
$6,889.72
Overhead:
10% of Subtotal
$6,889.72
$6,889.72
Grand Total: $82,676.64
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70.
Evaluation
69

71. Creative Connections
Evaluation Plan
Participants
Evaluation Tool Method
Formative:
1. Application Questions (Application)
2. Talk with parents
3. Daily Take‐Aways (Lesson Plans)
4. Journal Entries (Lesson Plans)
5. Swimming Assessment (Lesson Plan)
1. Parents/guardians will respond to
questions regarding their child’s
interests. This will help instructors
modify activities around their
interests.
2. When parents come to drop off and
pick up their children, we will
encourage them to share their
concerns or feedback about their
child’s progress as this will help to
build relationships within the
community as well as receive
feedback about the program and the
child.
3. At the end of every day, Creative
Connections will have everyone
gather in a circle and share one thing
they learned or a lesson they really
enjoyed. This will help instructors
understand where the students are
developmentally as well as assess
what activities are effective and most
memorable.
4. Each student will keep a journal in
which they reflect upon certain
questions regarding the activities.
These prompts will help instructors
view children’s growth as well as look
at areas that need more focus.
5. Students will complete a swim
assessment at the beginning of the
session in order for instructors to see
how well the child can swim and view
their comfort level around water.
This is important as many later
activities take place around water.
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72. Summative
1. Closing
2. Art show
3. Program Evaluation Forms
1. After lunch on the last day, we will
have a closing ceremony and group
reflection. We will reflect upon our
learning and our group as whole. This
will help staff see how far the group
has come and allow the students one
more chance to bond.
2. On the last day, an Art show will be
held including all the kid’s work from
the whole session. Parents will be
invited and the kids will be expected
to explain their work to visitors. This
will help students reflect upon their
work and allow staff to observe the
kids telling all they have learned.
3. At the end of the program, students
will fill out an in depth evaluation
form regarding the content and
quality of the program and staff. The
instructors will help facilitate the
evaluation.
Parents
Evaluation Tool Method
Formative:
1. Talk with parents
Summative:
1. Program and Staff Evaluation Forms
1. When parents come to drop off and
pick up their children, we will
encourage them to share their
concerns or feedback about their
child’s progress as this will help to
build relationships within the
community as well as receive
feedback about the program and the
child.
1. At the end of the program, parents
will receive evaluation forms
regarding the program and the staff.
They will be asked to fill them out and
return them anonymously to a folder
during the art show.
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73. Staff
Evaluation Tool Method
Formative:
1. Pre‐instructor training
2. Instructor Meeting
Summative:
1. Meeting with Staff/Director
2. Program Evaluation (Form)
1. Before an instructor is to begin
facilitation in this program, they will
go through a training designed to
inform them of proper teaching
techniques and how to work well with
kids. They will also get an overview of
the lessons to become more familiar
with them. This will help staff
become aware of what is going on in
the program as well as what is
expected from them.
2. The instructors will have daily
meetings before the start of every
day. They will discuss the daily
schedule, and check in with each
other as this is a good way to make
sure everyone is on the same page.
1. At the midpoint and end of each
session, staff will meet one on one
with the program director to discuss
their performance and what has been
going well or what can be improved.
They will discuss differences written
on the staff self‐evaluation and the
Program Director’s Staff evaluation.
2. At the end of each the session, staff
will fill out a program evaluation
form. This will help to enhance future
sessions as well provide constructive
feedback for both the program and
employer.
72

74. Creative Connections
Student Program and Staff Evaluation Form
Please complete each question by circling the answer that best describes your experience.
1. Did you have fun at Creative Connections? NO! no yes YES!
2. Did you enjoy the Arts and Crafts? NO! no yes YES!
3. Did you enjoy the outdoor activities? NO! no yes YES!
4. Did you enjoy spending time in Itasca? NO! no yes YES!
5. Did you make any new friends? NO! no yes YES!
6. Did you learn any new skills? NO! no yes YES!
7. Did you like your instructors? NO! no yes YES!
8. Would you do it again? NO! no yes YES!
Write about your favorite activity.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Was there anything you wanted to do but didn’t get to?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
73

75. What did you learn about yourself?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Write about your thoughts about your counselors.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
74

76. Creative Connections
Parent/Guardian Program and Staff Evaluation Form
Dear Parents/Guardians, please complete and return this evaluation form to the envelope by
the door. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!
1. Please tell us what has gone well. What has your child enjoyed about camp?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
2. Is there anything you would like to see done differently?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
3. Did you feel prepared for the program before it began? If not, please explain what you
would have liked to know additionally.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
4. Did you feel we were able to communicate effectively throughout the program?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
5. Please describe any changes you have seen in your child through the duration of the
program.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
6. Were the staff helpful and approachable?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
7. Do you have any more comments or feedback?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
75

77. Creative Connections
Staff Program and Evaluation Form
Please answer the following questions truthfully as this will help us give future staff a better
experience.
1. Did you feel well prepared for the program? If not, what would have helped?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
2. Were the lessons clear and easy to understand/teach?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
3. Did you feel supported in your role as a staff member? If not, what could we have done
differently?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
4. Please list:
a. One Positive:_______________________________________________________
b. One Negative:______________________________________________________
c. One Change:_______________________________________________________
5. How was the energy between co‐instructors?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
76

78. Creative Connections
Staff Self‐Evaluation Form
1. What are some things you think you did well throughout the program?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
2. What are some things you think you could work on?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
3. What did you learn from this experience?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
4. Did you enjoy your experience? Why/Why not?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
5. Would you consider working with us next summer? Why or Why not?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
6. What could the Lead Facilitator or Program Director have done differently to help or
support you through this program?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
7. What was your favorite/least favorite part of this program?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
77

79. Creative Connections
Program Director Staff Evaluation
Name of Staff Member:___________________________________________________________
1. What did this staff member do well throughout the program?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
2. What could they work on?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
3. How did you see them change/grow from their experiences?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
4. In what areas would you like to see this staff member step up more in leadership?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
*Please fill out the following skills evaluation for each counselor.
78