2022 Class Information
The 2022 class will include virtual and in-person learning experiences.
The training class will kick off with an in-person orientation session on Thursday, August 18 from 5-9 pm at the Urban Ecology Center, located at Phil Hardberger Park—West (8400 N.W. Military Highway) in north-central San Antonio.
For safety and convenience, class sessions will be held virtually via Zoom. There will be ten weekly virtual classes (August 25 through November 10). Class breaks are scheduled for September 15 and October 20 (there will be no class those weeks). All Zoom class sessions will be held on Thursday evenings from 5:00-9:00 pm. The location for the final class session on November 17 will be announced at a later time.
Should anyone have concerns that virtual classes may not fit their learning needs, we ask that that we be given an opportunity to demonstrate its effectiveness. The AAMN Initial Training Team is experienced in providing virtual training and committed to providing all participants with an outstanding learning experience.
There will be opportunities for class participants to interact face-to-face during field trips, volunteer activities, optional educational programs and social gatherings the class may schedule.
Class participants will be assigned to an experienced chapter mentor who will actively engage with them throughout the training class.
Apply online for the 2022 class: https://form.jotform.com/220554268133149
Applications for the 2022 class will be accepted from June 1-30 only – no late applications accepted.
We try to admit all who apply, but if demand exceeds our capacity, then we will admit those whose applications indicate they are committed to becoming an active Certified Master Naturalist (volunteering more than 40 hours per year on projects approved by the chapter).
Those who are accepted will receive offers for admission by July 5. Those who accept admission must pay tuition by July 19.
Please see additional class information below.
General Class Information
Applicants must be age 18 or older.
The training fee of $200 will pay for the Texas Master Naturalist Curriculum, a name badge, a chapter t-shirt, supplies and membership dues for the initial year. NOTE: A limited number of partial scholarships will be available.
Application to the Texas Master Naturalist, Alamo Area Chapter (AAMN) is open to all individuals and does not discriminate on the basis of socioeconomic level, race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age (18 or older), or disability.
AAMN utilizes the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Volunteer Management System (VMS) online reporting tool to record volunteer service hours. Use of this reporting system is mandatory for all Texas Master Naturalists. We also utilize e-mail, Google Group and other online tools to communicate and collaborate with students. All online tools are internet-based and can be accessed from any computer or tablet. All students accepted into the program must learn and use VMS and all communication and collaboration tools we utilize. We will provide training on the use of these computer applications during class.
Background Checks and Waivers: All AAMN training applicants must agree to a photo and liability waiver, in addition to a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department background check. A link to the required background check form will be sent after class acceptance. A driver’s license is required to complete the online form. There is no cost to you for the background check. This TPWD background check is mandatory of all Texas Master Naturalists, new and current, regardless of previous or other current background checks. After the initial TPWD background check, background check updates are required every 3 years.
Ethics and Standards of Conduct: Please review and ensure that you understand and can pledge to abide by the Texas Master Naturalist Ethics and Standards of Conduct.
Open Carry of Firearms: Texas Master Naturalists shall not openly carry firearms while volunteering, in accordance with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department policy concerning open carry of firearms.
Chapter Dues: The Alamo Area chapter collects $12 annual membership dues from each of its members. These are due by January 1 of each year.
For training-related questions: training2@alamomasternaturalist.org