Birds are among the most fascinating creatures on Earth, found on every continent and prevalent even in human-dominated landscapes. Some are beautiful, others are accomplished singers, and all play important roles in the ecosystems in which they live. Even amateur birders have made important discoveries about birds, and there is still a lot to learn and explore. While birding, youth connect with the natural world; if they share their observations through citizen science, they also make valuable contributions to one's understanding of that world. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology has developed educational resources, known as BirdSleuth, which are used around the country to support students in citizen-science participation, outdoor activities, and inquiry-based investigations. Each fall, the Cornell Lab publishes the national edition of its student research journal, "Classroom BirdScope," which features student research and creative work by young birders around the country. BirdSleuth teachers use birds and the local environment to teach concepts in science, math, language arts, and art. Emphasizing hands-on, real-world learning experiences, the activities boost academic achievement while helping students develop stronger ties to their community and appreciation for the natural world. (Contains 5 figures, 1 resource, and 4 online resources.)