think outside. . .no box required
Brent and Dorla Jacobson join Bonanza!
We're thrilled to welcome Brent & Dorla Jacobson as our new Co-Directors of the Bonanza Education Center! 🎉
They bring decades of teaching experience, a deep love of nature, and a long history of involvement at Bonanza.
Brent—who first led Bonanza back in 1999—just wrapped up 25 years at Browns Valley School teaching middle school Math, Science, and Social Studies.
Dorla recently retired after 26 years at Big Stone City School, where she inspired countless 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders. 🍎✨
The Jacobsons have always been part of the Bonanza story, serving on the board and supporting outdoor learning.
Now, they’re stepping into leadership together—ready to spark curiosity, adventure, and a love of the outdoors for every student who visits! 🌾🌎💡
Email them at bonanza.coordinator@gmail.com to get those fall field trips scheduled!!!
Conveniently located on the shores of Big Stone Lake, Bonanza Education Center (BEC) combines learning with nature to bring the outdoors alive for the area’s youth!
Canoeing, Fishing, life cycles, woodcraft, conservation and biology are all combined in a perfect setting for a hands-on learning experience to our members.
Almost 30 years ago, Educators in the Big Stone Lake area saw a unique opportunity to provide outdoor experiences for the area’s youth.
Area schools formed a non-profit organization and approached MN DNR about leasing a near-abandoned interpretive center within Bonanza State Park.
After years of dedication to the cause, Bonanza Education Center became a reality in 1994!
About US
OUR STORY
Founded in 1991, Bonanza Education Center is a non-profit organization governed by a board of directors from member schools and the community.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources leases the facilities to Bonanza to provide the best environmental education opportunities possible.
From the prairie, bur-oak, natural springs, and Big Stone Lake, the natural setting is perfect for learners of all ages.
The Bonanza building is also opened to be rented out for events of any sort.
Contact us for your school or community group needs.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to foster in people of all ages an appreciation of the outdoor world where the activities demonstrate connections between natural and cultural environments.
Bonanza Education Center is a group of member schools who partnered together to bring outdoor education into the classroom.
Historically, we’ve been able to keep membership rates affordable by applying for grants, collecting donations and receiving generous contributions from local government organizations
ABOUT OUR
MEMBERS
Bonanza member schools get two staff coordinated visits every school year for every k-12 class. Non-member schools can also inquire about available dates.
The building and state park facilities offer a variety of options for year-round education and outdoor recreation.
We also offer in-school visits for additional programming.