Topics Related to Notes from the Field

“When any of us faces an important challenge, we search for strength. Strength to rise to the occasion. Strength to reach across differences in search of common ground. Strength to stand up for what we know is right. Strength to meet the moment. Sometimes, you don’t know how strong you are until you are put to the test.” Governor Josh Stein, State of the State Address

It’s been six months since Hurricane Helene disrupted life in Western North Carolina, leaving communities to rebuild everything from homes and roads to schools and classroom routines.

For too long, the history, culture, and natural wonders of this state have been waiting quietly, hidden in plain sight. The truth is that North Carolina holds some of the greatest treasures in the country. I’ve recently learned about some of the ways the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) is creating spaces that share these treasures, tell the stories of this state, honor its past, and provide experiences that change the way students see the place they call home.

The Ambassadors’ Program has opened an entirely new world of possibilities for me, my students, and my school staff. It has deepened my appreciation for North Carolina and all it has to offer, from its rich cultural heritage to its natural resources. This experience has been truly life-changing, broadening my perspective and inspiring me to introduce my students to opportunities they never knew existed. I now see DNCR not just as a department, but as a gateway to exploration, education, and discovery across our state.  - Patrice Wade, 2025 Ambassador

On February 3-4, 2025, 88 committed DNCR educators gathered at the NC Museum of Transportation in Spencer for a two-day professional development conference. The theme, "Pathways to Learning, Discovery, and Collaboration," aimed to strengthen DNCR's support for schools across North Carolina. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration, sharing best practices, and exploring innovative educational approaches.

On Wednesday, January 15, twelve North Carolina educators and two staff members from the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences embarked on an exciting journey to Mexico as part of the Museum's most recent Educators of Excellence program: Mexico's Magical Migrations Institute.

Meet the Educators

On Saturday, December 14, the North Carolina Opera hosted "The Passion of Mary Cardwell D

"Attending festivals, school visits, and public programs as a first-generation Mexican American representing DNCR is an honor. Seeing the faces of the Latine community light up when I greet them in Spanish—it means more to me than gold," shares Hugo Govea, a passionate member of DNCR's Education and Outreach team.

"Christin Brown is an absolute jewel for Jennette's Pier and NC Aquariums. Christin and her very small yet powerful team embrace the opportunity to welcome nearly 10,000 students each year. Many of these children have never seen or experienced the ocean, and this team creates not only a fun and engaging educational experience but crafts a lifelong memory for these children while fostering an appreciation for our natural resources." - Hap Fatzinger, Director, NC 

How long have you been with DNCR? 
13 years.

At the NCMA learning happens in the galleries, Museum Park, online, and in classrooms across our state. I’m passionate about what I do because I’ve seen the impact. Museum objects serve as catalysts to spark curiosity, learning, and discussion. Art museums offer students ways to connect to cultures across time and place and broaden their worldviews. We are excited to join other museums, parks, zoos, and historic sites in North Carolina’s Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) as we celebrate that “learning happens here.”

How long have you been with DNCR?