The Nevada Mining Association (NVMA), in partnership with the American Geosciences Institute, is excited to announce a series of Earth science lessons that align with Nevada’s state education standards and provide students with real-world applications of geoscience. Developed for students from kindergarten through 12th grade, these lesson plans are designed to bring Nevada’s mining industry into the classroom.
“At the Nevada Mining Association, we believe that education is one of the most powerful tools we have to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and other professionals who keep our industry moving,” said Amanda Hilton, President of the NVMA. “By connecting Earth science lessons to Nevada’s unique geology and the role mining plays in our daily lives, we’re helping students see the relevance of what they’re learning, and the exciting careers available to them.”
The lessons integrate science and engineering practices through a range of topics, including minerals and rocks, the mining process, sustainability, map reading, and plate tectonics. Using mining in a real-world context, the lessons help students explore key Earth science concepts through Nevada-specific examples and offer an engaging learning experience that highlights Earth processes, natural resource formation, and the relationship between humans and the environment.
As Nevada’s mining industry continues to remain a leading economic driver, NVMA hopes to inspire Nevada’s youth and next generation of miners through fun and engaging lessons that represent modern mining. To support this goal, NVMA offers free Earth Science Workshops for K–12 teachers, with the Southern Nevada workshop scheduled for March 17–18, 2026, and the Northern Nevada workshop taking place June 16–17, 2026.
“Students often learn about the role of mining in Nevada in their history classes, but the reality is that mining in Nevada is still as alive as ever,” Hilton continues. “Today, mining in Nevada supports over 37,000 high-paying jobs, and we’re hoping to show students at all grade levels what that looks like, as well as help educators understand the opportunities in the mining industry as they guide students into post-graduation career pathways.”
Each lesson is free for teachers to download and includes detailed preparation steps, discussion questions, and instructional guidance to make implementation seamless for teachers and students. For more information about the Nevada Mining Association’s teacher lesson plans and classroom activities, visit https://nevadamining.org/activities.
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About the Nevada Mining Association
The mission of the Nevada Mining Association (NVMA) is to unite, inform, advocate, and serve as the public voice of Nevada’s modern mining industry. From advocacy on major policy issues to developing innovative ways to connect members with opportunities, the Nevada Mining Association builds recognition of the mining industry’s contribution across the Silver State. The Nevada Mining Association is committed to leading environmental stewardship and the health and safety of workers, residents, and communities. The NVMA envisions Nevadans embracing the mining industry as forward thinking, respected, and essential for a vibrant future. For more information, visit www.nevadamining.org. Stay up to date with all Nevada Mining Association activities on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
