Philosophy & Approach

Environmental Education

• Views the outdoors and the community as the classroom

• Is interdisciplinary in nature, blending science, social studies, language arts, math, and more

• Develops a connection with the natural world and a sense of place

• Equips students with skills to understand and address ecological challenges

• Recognizes how humans, wildlife, and the environment interact and affect each other

Critical Pedagogy

• Recognizes that teaching and learning are innately political and never neutral

• Focuses on exposing learners to inequalities and empowering them to seek justice and liberation

• Examines dominant social norms and applies a critical lens

• Employs a constructivist and student-driven approach guide learning

• Prepares students for civic engagement and sef-advocacy

Social-Emotional Learning

• Explicitly teaches the "soft" skills needed for a successful and joyful life

• Develops social skills, empathy, and communication

• Helps students to critically evaluate information and make strategic decisions

• Equips students with tools identify and regulate emotions and stress

• Explores and solidifies students' identity, values, and goals