EcoScholars Institute
Group of students on a trail receiving instructions.

EcoScholars Institute

Lacawac Sanctuary Foundation’s EcoScholars Institute is a four-day summer institute for students entering grades 8 to 10 who are interested in STEM and environmental science. Each of the four days focuses on a different area of ecology: forest ecology, limnology and water ecology, wildlife ecology, and a guided canoe-based river investigation. Students will participate in hands-on data collection, lab analysis, and citizen-science projects. Lacawac educators, local scientists, and professionals will guide students through activities such as water-quality testing, plankton and macro invertebrate surveys, tree and habitat studies, and conservation problem-solving. Students will also have time for teamwork, nature journaling, and short presentations to share their findings.

Program Details

  • Dates: July 13-16, 2026 from 8am-4pm
  • Grade Levels: Rising 8th-10th graders
  • Meals: Lunch and snacks are provided each day

Application & Registration

Lacawac’s EcoScholars Institute uses an application-based enrollment process. Students interested in participating in the 2026 program must complete an application. Follow the steps below to get started.

  • Complete the online application form by clicking the button below.
  • Our staff will review each application and notify applicants of their application status.
  • Accepted applicants will receive an email with next steps, including a link to complete registration and information on scholarship opportunities.

Application & Registration Dates

Opens: Monday, January 19th, 2026
Closes: Monday, June 22nd, 2026

Please note: Space is limited. We encourage interested students to apply early to secure their spot.

Lacawac Membership & Events

Pricing & Policies

EcoScholars Institute Tuition

$275 per participant

Refund Policies

  • 50% refund available for cancellations made before May 1, 2026.
  • No refunds available for cancellations made after May 1, 2026.
  • Medical cancellations are eligible for a full refund with a doctor’s note.

Scholarship Assistance

Lacawac Sanctuary Foundation is committed to making our programs accessible to all students. Limited scholarships are available to help families offset the cost of our EcoScholar Institute. Upon acceptance into the program, families will receive information regarding financial assistance, the scholarship application process, and registration.

Please note: families seeking financial assistance must complete the scholarship application prior to registering for the program. Additionally, all information provided to Lacawac Sanctuary Foundation will remain strictly confidential.

Have Questions?

For questions or concerns regarding Lacawac’s EcoScholars Institute, please contact
Sue Cosgrove, Assistant Director of Environmental Education, by emailing
[email protected] or calling 570-689-9494.

2026 EcoScholars Institute Schedule

Group of students taking measurements in the forest

Day 1: Forest Ecology

July 13, 2026

Students explore how forests grow, change, and support life through hands-on investigations in Lacawac’s forested landscapes. Activities include tree identification, field labs, and examining the impacts of invasive species and deer, while also learning about the ecological research conducted at Lacawac.

Group of students performing experiments on a lake

Day 2: Aquatic Ecology

July 14, 2026

Students explore freshwater ecosystems and the science behind water quality, aquatic organisms, and watersheds. Through hands-on investigations, including macro invertebrate sampling, water quality monitoring, and data analysis, students gain a deeper understanding of how freshwater systems function in the natural world.

People holding and viewing a Scarlet Tanager

Day 3: Wildlife

July 15, 2026

Students discover the incredible diversity of wildlife found in the Pocono Mountains, from mammals and birds to reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. Using observation techniques and hands-on labs with pelts, skulls, and tracks, students learn how wildlife is adapted to different habitats.

Teenagers kayaking in Delaware River

Day 4: Delaware River Day

July 16, 2026

This off-site field day brings students to the Delaware River for an immersive, real-world learning experience. Working alongside professionals in the field, students explore river systems and participate in hands-on investigations that highlight the importance of freshwater conservation.