Our programs are designed to immerse students in inquiry, exploration, and problem solving while experiencing the Missouri landscape. Just 45 minutes from St. Louis, but a world away for young minds…
Shaw Nature Reserve classes vary in duration from 1 to 2 hours, but all include hands-on learning and active discovery of nature and the great outdoors. We encourage you to schedule two classes with a lunch in between to make the most out of your Shaw Nature Reserve experience.
Required Chaperones:
Required chaperones attend free of charge. For grades PreK–3, 1 adult per 8 students is required. Admission fees for additional adults ($5 each) will be added to the school invoice.
Classes cost $3 per student.
Important: All groups, whether led by a Reserve Instructor or self-guided by a teacher, must make reservations for their visit.
To schedule a program, call (314) 577-9523 or email kbryan@mobot.org. 
Registration begins:
	- November 1 for Spring Classes
 
	- May 1 for Fall Classes
 
Information needed when you call:
	- School name, address and phone number
 
	- Contact person’s name for confirmation
 
	- Program choice(s)—make sure program is available for the month that you request
 
	- Date and time (please have alternates)
 
	- Grade, age and number of participants (students and adults)
 
	- Teacher’s name and home phone number
 
	- Will you be having lunch at our picnic area?
 
One month prior to your visit, you will receive a confirmation packet containing important information about your visit, a suggested “Chaperone Letter” and an invoice. Carefully review the confirmation information and call (314) 577-9523  if corrections need to be made. The program fee is due on the day of the class.
Cancellations:
	- If you must cancel your trip, please let us know as soon as possible. Other school groups are on a waiting list and are willing to fill your place if they are given enough time to make the necessary arrangements.
 
	- If it is raining, we suggest that you call and cancel the class, as most classes are extremely difficult to conduct in this situation.
 
Click on a class title below to expand its description. Please note we cannot accommodate groups over 40 on rainy days due to lack of a building.