Participation Requirements
Groundswell supports local educators who want to involve their students in the community, on campus, and in the environment. Our program is based locally, and as we work to connect students, community, and nature, we provide educators with quality support to do this work effectively. We do this by designing and hosting professional learning opportunities that help educators grow in understanding place based stewardship education (PBSE), by providing educators with partnership collaboration throughout the area, and working alongside you in regularly meetings you as you begin to use PBSE practices in your classroom through a formalized PBSE project.
Program Updates on Engagement
Part of what makes Groundswell successful is teachers learning and collaborating with their colleagues within and outside of their school and district. We recognize that place-based stewardship education is an active practice; it grows and changes alongside our students and culture. To ensure educators stay connected and continue growing in PBSE practice, adjustments to our program are occurring.
Starting Summer 2026
In order to receive funding, an educator must:
- Attend at least one PLO
- Meet 1:1 with Groundswell staff
AND
- Attend Student Project Showcase
Starting Summer 2027
In order to receive funding, an educator must:
- Attend at least one PLO
- Meet 1:1 with Groundswell staff
AND
- Attend Student Project Showcase
AND
- Attend either Groundswell Summer Institute OR an officially approved alternate workshop every other year
This looks like:
Every other year: Attend Groundswell Summer Institute
Every year:
- Attend 2 hours of a PLO
- 2 hours of Showcase
- 1 - 2 hours of 1:1 coaching by Groundswell staff
Download a flyer that summarizes program requirements for educators engaged with Groundswell:
Program Engagement Updates Flyer
Download a letter that explains the reasoning behind the program requirements and summarizes them for educators engaged with Groundswell:
Each educator that does a Groundswell project and receives funding from our program must meet certain participation requirements. Read about these requirement and dive into the details of our professional learning opportunities and events below.
Student Projects (Formal PBSE Projects)
Groundswell provides support for local schools through stewardship project facilitation, professional development, community connections, and project funding. A Groundswell project is a student-led experience and is different for each class as a result. These projects are led by an educator and tied to the current curriculum by that educator, with mentoring and partnership connections provided by Groundswell staff. The projects themselves are funded by Groundswell (up to $1,500) and are community-based and centered around environmental stewardship.
To learn more about student-stewardship projects and how to get involved, visit
What is the Groundswell Summer Institute?
The Groundswell Summer Institute is our annual training for educators who want to deepen their practice in place-based stewardship education (PBSE). Over two to three days, participants connect with local partners, explore hands-on learning opportunities, and design meaningful student action projects.
Who can attend the Summer Institute?
Any educator who teaches in Kent or Ottawa counties interested in environmental and place-based learning is welcome! Teachers and community partners all attend to share ideas, discover new resources, and learn about the pedagogy of place-based stewardship education.
When and where is the Summer Institute held?
The Institute is held each summer, typically in early August, at or near Grand Valley State University. Specific dates and locations are shared through Groundswell's newsletter and website.
What kinds of sessions are offered?
You can expect a mix of hands-on field experiences, immersion in the Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative's Six Elements of Place-Based Education, networking with partners, curriculum planning time, and sessions that highlight successful student action projects. It's energizing, practical, and fun! For more information on the Six Elements of Place-based Stewardship Education, visit these resources.
Learn more about Summer Institute by visiting the webpage:
Every professional learning opportunity (PLO):
Offers SCECH credits
Focuses on tangible ways to actively practice place-based stewardship education
Connects learning to the local community and environment
Welcomes participants into the Groundswell network where we create space to share ideas, trade classroom strategies, and learn alongside one another in a supportive environment
Groundswell offers professional learning experiences for formal teachers, informal educators, and for our network of community partners in Kent and Ottawa Counties. Participants leave these experiences with ready-to-use lessons and activities they can bring straight into their classrooms or out in the field.
Student Project Showcase is a vibrant, interactive event that highlights the dedication and creativity of students, teachers, and community members who have worked together on meaningful stewardship projects. Every participating school and educator that conducts a stewardship project must attend this event in the spring of the academic year. Groundswell is proud to recognize the contributions of teachers from across Kent and Ottawa counties at this annual event who lead their students in meaningful stewardship projects during the academic year.
Here's what you can look forward to at the event:
- Keynote Addresses: Inspiring words from the GVSU Provost and the Dean of the College of Education and Community Innovation.
- Exhibit Fair: Schools and community partners will host exhibit tables showcasing their stewardship activities and projects.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Indoor and outdoor games for children and families, fostering a fun and engaging atmosphere.
- Snacks: Refreshments for all attendees to enjoy together.
Learn more about this event by visiting
What counts as a Professional Learning Opportunity (PLO)?
Groundswell PLOs include workshops, field experiences, and networking events that focus on place-based stewardship education. Typically, these are 2-hour sessions offered throughout the academic year. Each PLO offers SCECH credits and are typically held outside of school hours.
What funding is available for student action projects?
Groundswell provides funding to support student-led environmental and community stewardship projects. Funding can be used for supplies, transportation, substitute teachers, and other project-related needs.
Who is eligible to receive funding for student projects?
Educators in the Groundswell network who meet annual participation requirements are eligible to apply for project funding.
What are the eligibility requirements starting in August 2026?
To receive funding in August 2026 and beyond, educators must:
- Attend at least one Professional Learning Opportunity (PLO) per year, and
- Attend the Student Project Showcase in spring.
What additional requirements begin in August 2027?
Starting in 2027, educators must also:
- Attend the Summer Institute at least every other year,
If I can't attend the Showcase or Summer Institute, can I still receive funding?
If you're unable to attend the Showcase or Summer Institute, you may still be eligible for funding. Please contact the Groundswell team at [email protected] to discuss possible alternatives.
How much time is expected for participation each year to receive funding?
On average, annual participation includes:
- 2–3 days at the Summer Institute (every other year)
- 2 hours for a PLO
- 2 hours for the Student Project Showcase
- 1–2 hours of individualized coaching
That's roughly 10 hours a year to stay connected, inspired, and supported. This does not include the time you spend in the classroom on your project.
How will Groundswell track participation?
Attendance at PLOs, the Showcase, and the Institute is recorded by Groundswell staff. You don't need to submit proof—just sign in when you attend any PLO or Showcase.
Who can I contact with questions?
If you're unsure about your eligibility or how to meet requirements, contact the Groundswell team at [email protected]. We're happy to help you find options that fit your schedule.
What support is available to help me meet these requirements?
We know educators are balancing a lot, and we are here to help! Groundswell provides multiple PLO options each year, offers both in-person and virtual learning opportunities, and provides coaching to support your project and planning needs. If you have any ideas, concerns, or would like support in navigating these requirements, please contact [email protected].