Wild Explorers
After the school day ends, join us for a walk on the wild side of science. Participants will spend 2 hours at Swaner from 3:30 to 5:30 one day a week during the 3-week session to learn more about nature and the science that powers it. Our afterschool program is open to youth currently enrolled in Kindergarten through 5th grade and participants should be enrolled based on their current grade level. Each day includes a small snack, outdoor time, and hands-on activities. Participants should come dressed and prepared for the weather each day.
Drop off and pick up take place at the EcoCenter. Transportation from local elementary schools is not available at this time.
2025-26 Session Dates & Themes
Spooky Science
Tuesday, October 7, 14, & 21
Unveil the mysterious and eerie side of the natural world! This October, participants will explore the strange, the glowing, and the surprising wonders that lurk in the wild!
Crawling Curiosities
Tuesday, November 4, 11, & 18
Peek inside the tiny world of insects and other small creatures. Participants will uncover the fascinating ways small organisms live, adapt, and interact with their environments, studying the micro marvels of nature up close.
The Planet’s Palette
Tuesday, December 2, 9, & 16
Come and admire the beauty of the outdoors and inspire your creativity! Get ready to put pencil to paper as participants discover nature’s colors and patterns!
Frosty Phenomena
Tuesday, January 6, 13, & 20
Uncover the chilly surprises and magic of winter! Participants will cozy up into all things frozen, from learning about animal adaptations to icy landscapes and skies. This month highlights the amazing phenomena that make the coldest months so cool!
Sustainable Stewards
Tuesday, April 7, 21, & 28
*no program April 14 due to Spring Break*
Prepare to dig into Earth’s green solutions and become a good steward of the earth! Participants will celebrate our planet and explore the ways we can care for it!
Pond and Beyond
Tuesday, May 5, 12, & 19
Dive into the hidden world that lies beneath the surface of the pond. Participants will explore the rich ecosystems of calm waters, revealing the life in these unique habitats.
Cost
The cost of the program is $60 per session. No refunds will be given for days missed during a session.
Financial Aid
Fee waivers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Fee waivers cover 50% of the program costs. The remaining $30 is due the first day of the program. To apply for a fee waiver, please fill out the online application. You will receive an update about your application within 1 week of receipt. If you have any questions, please contact Katherine Veeder at katherine.veeder@usu.edu or 435-797-8942.
Cancellations & Refunds
Cancellations will receive a 50% refund only if your spot can be filled from the waitlist. If your spot cannot be filled, you will not receive a refund. No refunds will be given for days missed during the session. Registrations are nontransferable.
Contact Information
Name: Katherine Veeder
Position: Director of Education
E-mail: katherine.veeder@usu.edu
Phone: 435-797-8942
Location, Hours & Contact
Physical & Mailing Address
1258 Center Drive
Park City, Utah 84098
EcoCenter Hours
Wednesday – Sunday, 10 am – 4 pm
Email
swanerecocenter@usu.edu
Phone
435-649-1767