CHAMPAIGN AND PIATT COUNTIES (Chambana Today) – Students in Champaign and Piatt counties are set to explore Illinois’ natural treasures thanks to grants from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

Faith and Reason Learning Community in Urbana received $1,315 for grades 4–12 to visit The Nature Institute in Godfrey. In Piatt County, DeLand-Weldon CUSD 57 was awarded $550 for grades 6–8 to take part in a field trip to 4-H Memorial Camp in Monticello.

These grants, part of 108 awarded statewide this year totaling over $101,000, cover expenses such as transportation and substitute teachers for trips that complement classroom curriculum. Since 2001, the program has provided outdoor learning experiences to more than 146,000 Illinois students.

IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie said, “These field trips give students the chance to experience firsthand what they learn in the classroom. Connecting with nature helps inspire the next generation of conservation leaders.”