MOUNT WASHINGTON OBSERVATORY OFFERS FREE DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAMS TO SUPPORT THE NATION'S VIRTUAL CLASSROOMS

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic that is forcing schools nationwide to go to virtual classrooms the non-profit Mount Washington Observatory (MWO) will offer free distance learning programs three times a week to support educators in their efforts to provide remote learning opportunities. Students and weather enthusiasts can connect live to the highest peak in the Northeastern US, Mount Washington, New Hampshire, as Weather Observers and Education Specialists at MWO present Facebook Live sessions called “Home of the World’s Worst Weather Live.”

Programs will be offered weekly on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 11:15 AM EST. The programs are targeted for grades 3-8 and expand on MWO’s well-established distance learning program that connects students across the country to the excitement and science taking place in the “Home of the World’s Worst Weather”.

Program content will vary with Mondays being focused on a special topic starting with “How to Take a Weather Observation” exploring the basic components of weather. Themes will cover other topics including summit research, climate education, the 231 MPH record wind to what it’s like to live and work as a scientist in such a remarkable place. There will also be an opportunity for viewers and educators to suggest topics for discussion.

Tuesday and Thursday MWO’s summit scientists will take 15 minutes to share the latest weather conditions and forecasts from high above treeline, followed by a Q&A session in real-time.

Live programs will be uploaded to MWO’s website at mountwashington.org/classroom for use outside the regularly scheduled time. Additionally, the site will provide resources and activities related to the science of weather. For more information about this program visit mountwashington.org or follow us on social media at Facebook/MWObs to be kept up-to-date on the latest program topics.

About Mount Washington Observatory:

Mount Washington Observatory is a private, nonprofit, member-supported institution with a mission to advance understanding of the natural systems that create the Earth's weather and climate. Since 1932, the Observatory has been monitoring the elements from its weather station on the summit of Mount Washington, using this unique site for scientific research and educational outreach. For more information, call (800) 706-0432 or visit MountWashington.org.

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