Trout in the Classroom (TIC) is an environmental education program in which students in grades k-12:

• raise trout from eggs to fry.
• monitor tank water quality.
• engage in stream habitat study.
• learn to appreciate water resources.
• begin to foster a conservation ethic.
• grow to understand ecosystems.

Most programs end the year by releasing their trout in a state-approved stream near the school or within a nearby watershed.

During the year each teacher tailors the program to fit his or her curricular needs. Therefore, each program is unique. TIC has interdisciplinary applications in science, social studies, mathematics, language arts, fine arts, and physical education. You can read more about the TIC program in Virginia by visiting the Virginia Council of TU’s Web site, www.vctu.org.

In each state, Trout in the Classroom is funded by a number of generous supporters — including the Fly Fishers of Virginia, Dominion Power, Fin and Feather Pet Store of Richmond, and the Virginia Council of TU — and made more rich through varied partnerships. The Virginia Capital Chapter sponsored its first TIC project in 2009 at Powhatan Junior High School. For the 2010 school year, our program has grown to 11 projects across Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico, King William, Powhatan, and Richmond City school districts.

We will expand the information about our TIC program on this Web site in the coming months. If you are a teacher interested in hosting a TIC project, or if you are a member who wants to support our work, please contact our chapter’s TIC coordinator, Jason McGarvey.