What is TNT?
Teen Nature Team is a free year-round nature education program focused on connecting youth to nature. The program incorporates exploration, play, learning, and stewardship at our local parks and natural areas.
Participants receive ongoing mentorship, professional development, and opportunities to stay connected with Portland Parks & Recreation. High school credit may also be available for students entering the ninth grade:
When is TNT?
TNT meets on Saturdays, school holidays, and during the summer. The program currently meets 9:00am - 2:00pm.
Participants are split into two groups and each group meets once a month throughout the school year and then for three weeks in the summer.
TNT begins in October!
2024 Fall Schedule
- Group 1: 10/5, 10/11, 11/2, 12/7
- Group 2: 10/5, 10/18, 11/9, 12/14
- Mix group (optional): 10/26, 11/16, 12/21
Dates and topics are subject to change.
Spaces are limited
We have space for 24 students at a time. Applicants are accepted into the program twice a year: fall and summer. If space opens during programming, other youth will be invited to join.
Priority is given to eligible applicants who can attend 100% of the required dates and meets one or both of the following criteria:
- Low-income (as demonstrated by enrollment in Title I school, participation in Free and Reduced-price School meals program or qualification for other federal assistance programs), and/or
- From a group underrepresented in professional environmental fields (people of color, immigrants, refugees, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+).
Who can apply?
Current middle school students (grades 6 - 8)
Teens of all races, ethnicities, religions, gender identities, abilities, English language proficiency, and immigration status are encouraged to apply.
Youth must be able to walk two miles on uneven ground and safely handle sharp tools.
Youth must be willing to get dirty (some gear and clothing provided).
Once a student has been accepted, they are eligible to participate until they start the 9th grade.
How do I apply?
Ask your teacher for an application, print out a copy below, or apply online. If a student would like to apply using the online application, they can reach out to karen.chao@portlandoregon.gov.
Submit the application by mail or email by October 9th.
What happens after I apply?
We will schedule a phone interview within two weeks of receiving your application. The phone interview will help us determine who will be invited to join the program for the year. If you are not selected for the fall session you may be invited later.
Questions
Karen Chao (I speak Mien y un poquito de español)
karen.chao@portlandoregon.gov