The program aims to engage high schoolers and teachers as park rangers, giving them six weeks of paid work experience to learn about park resources and perform ranger duties. 

“These programs are mutually beneficial,” said Susan Sachs, education coordinator for the Appalachian Highlands Science Learning Center located in the Haywood County area of the park. “The students and teachers get an in-depth study of resource education techniques, scientific methods and field research to enhance their skills and talents, and, in turn, the park creates advocates through better understanding of and appreciation for the Smokies.”

Funds from Friends of the Smokies license plate sales and grants from the Great Smoky Mountains Association, Alcoa and the Youth Partnership Program support the program. 

Four teachers and 24 high school students from Tennessee and North Carolina participated. Local students were: 

Kat Casey and Addison Costa, Smokey Mountain High School; Orion Holmberg, Cherokee Central High School; Kyra Mehaffey, Pisgah High School; Austin Shuler, Swain High School; Bella Weeks, Jackson County Early College; and Ashley Welch, Tuscola High School. Teacher Taylor Zimmerman of Smokey Mountain High School was one of the four teachers selected.