Educator Resources
Education is a key component to protecting Greater Portland’s source of drinking water, Sebago Lake, and other local water resources. The Portland Water District and area educators work together to foster environmentally responsible and knowledgeable citizens. Through collaboration and sharing resources, PWD works to be a valuable asset to educators.
Below are resources available to support educators with their water-related education and curriculum. Please contact the Education Coordinator with questions or to create a partnership with PWD.
During the pandemic, our education staff researched and created high quality educational resources related to water. These resources are useful and available to anyone, and include videos, playlists, lesson plans, and more.
Loanable Water Education Resources
PWD loans equipment and materials related to water education. Educators are welcome to borrow our kits, models, and other supplies to enhance students’ learning about water.
Grants are available for water-related education! Funds may be used for supplies, curricula, field trip transportation, and other resources. Individuals can receive a maximum of $200 while a collaborative group of three or more educators can receive up to $500. Click on the link above to access our easy online application and more information.
Discovering Water Book
Published in 2015, “Discovering Water” was researched, written, edited, illustrated, photographed, and designed entirely by students at Windham High School. Students and staff worked alongside PWD to create an authentic learning product that complements our education programs. The book is designed for a middle school audience, and covers topics such as the water cycle, pollution, water quality testing, and stewardship. An ibook version of the book, featuring videos and interactive quizzes for each chapter, was completed by Windham High School students in 2018.
To learn more about this innovative project, visit discoveringwater.org
- You can access “Discovering Water” three ways:
- High and low resolution PDFs are available below or here.
- Download the ibook version from the iBook Store: Directions.
- Request a class set of hard copies from the Education Coordinator
High resolution (41 MB) Low resolution (3 MB)
Wastewater 101 Kit
This kit, designed for students in grades 3-8, contains information about wastewater treatment. Background information, lesson plans, and a booklet containing photos of a typical wastewater treatment plant are included. Contact the Education Coordinator to request a kit.
Pair your kit with an eight minute video about Portland’s East End Wastewater Treatment Facility. The video was created by King Middle School students and PWD in 2012.
Learn more about PWD’s school programs and outreach efforts.