Frequently asked questions.
General FAQ
Where can I get an application?
Applications are available as a link on the workshop website.
Am I eligible to apply?
K-12 teachers and other educators are eligible to apply. The program is relevant to teachers across all grade levels and subject areas, though K-8 teachers, science teachers and social studies teachers may benefit most.
What needs to be included in my application? (see more information in Participant Eligibility & Expectations)
complete the application form
attach a résumé or short biography
attach a letter of professional reference
Can I mail my application?
Applications may only be submitted electronically and must be submitted by March 3, 2023.
If you are concerned about the safe arrival of your materials, feel free to contact Roxann Smith to check on their status.
If I apply, when will I hear?
Successful applicants will be notified of their selection via email April 3, 2023. You will have until April 14, 2023, to accept or decline the offer.
What paperwork will I need to send in if I accept your invitation to attend the Workshop?
You will need to sign the “acceptance” letter we send you which stipulates the dates of your Workshop and your stipend and provide us with your current address and a W9. We suggest you fax the information to 406-768-3026, or mail them to Breanna Buckles at: Fort Peck Community College, PO Box 398 Poplar, MT 59255. In this letter we will request information about your dietary restrictions, roommate preferences and other details.
How do I arrange to have a roommate?
For participants who will be housed in shared rooms, we will assign roommates but if you know of someone else accepted to the workshop you’d like to share with, please let us know with your acceptance form.
Can I bring my family and pets?
Family and pets will not be permitted to attend the workshop, stay at the lodge nor accompany you on any field trips. You will need to make your own lodging arrangements if you want to travel with family and/or pets. See Travel and Lodging.
Where can I buy groceries?
Gardiner, Montana has one full-service grocery store, on the main highway through town.
Where can I work out?
The weather will be quite warm in August, so there will be lots of opportunities for walking or running outside. There are also walking trails at and nearby the North Yellowstone Lodge, and field trips during the workshop will include some walking/hiking.
Where can I attend religious services?
For information on religious services in Gardner, MT, check out the Gardiner, Montana web site. This site contains links to individual churches and organizations, including schedules for services.
What if I get sick?
How do I get around if I don't have a car?
Bussing will be provided for all field trips. See Travel & Lodging for more information.
How much time will there be for seeing the sights?
The field trips will include sight-seeing.
How can I access the internet?
You will be given guest access to the Lodge’s wifi.
Where will the Workshop be held?
The Workshop sessions will take place in the North Yellowstone Lodge.
Who are the Workshop Staff?
See these links for information on our Core Team and Presenters.
Where can I park at the Workshop site?
There is parking at the Lodge but we encourage you to take advantage of van transportation from the airport if you are going to fly.
What will our daily class schedule be like?
A preliminary agenda may be viewed here. A final agenda will be provided on the first day of workshop.
All meals are provided for those who stay at the Lodge and agree to participate in meals.
Each day will have some free time and/or lesson planning time.
How much walking will be required?
A fair amount of walking will be involved during our field trips. If you have physical limitations, please let us know so that we can make arrangements to assist you.
What sort of assignments and homework will we be asked to do during the Institute?
Nominal readings and video viewings are expected to be completed prior to the workshop. During the workshop additional readings will be available.
Lesson plans will be developed during the workshop and afterwards will all be uploaded to the Lessons tab on the website for your use and public information.
Will I get continuing education credit for attending the Workshop?
Please see this section of the Participant Eligibility and Expectations page.
How should I prepare for the weather and the elevation of the workshop activities?
The weather in and around Yellowstone Park can be very variable in August, from quite warm (e.g. 90 degrees) to quite cool (e.g. in the 30s). Please check the forecast before you come and regardless of the forecast, bring multiple layers and be prepared for sunshine or rain and the remote possibility of snow when we’re at the higher elevations in the Park.
If you’re not accustomed to elevations of 5-7000 feet, you may find you are more tired and/or headachy than usual for the first couple of days. In rare situations you may feel nauseous (mostly occurs at much higher elevations). Also, at that elevation the sun is hotter and burns the skin much more quickly than you might otherwise expect. Use sunscreen, drink plenty of water at all times, and give yourself some extra grace to deal with the elevation changes.
What do I do if I have questions that don't appear on this list?
Please contact us at rsmith@fpcc.edu