If you grew up in Oregon, you probably went to Outdoor School. It is a memorable rite of passage for middle schoolers in the region. It is officially known as the Northwest Outdoor Science School (NOSS). If you are a transplant to Oregon, you may not know about Outdoor School, but talk to people who went, and they will share their fond memories and tell you about their camp and their experiences.
NOSS offers an enriching multi-day, overnight experience that immerses participants in the natural world at one of five current locations across northwest Oregon. The locations are Arrah Wanna (Welches), Cedar Ridge (Vernonia), Magruder (Rockaway Beach), Meriwether (Cape Lookout), and Trickle Creek (Salem). It is kind of like summer camp, but during the school year and with your classmates.
Outdoor school started in Oregon in 1957. It started as a pilot project, and Southern Oregon has grown to what it is today. Outdoor school is free in Oregon for public or charter school students. In fact, in 2016, Oregon voters passed Ballot Measure 99, authorizing funds from the state lottery to provide all Oregon fifth- or sixth-grade students access to a week of outdoor school. Measure 99 provides the funding for the outdoor school law passed by the Oregon Legislature in 2015.
NOSS operates under several core values that guide its programs and services:
- Community
- Connection with Nature
- Fun
- Growth
- Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
At Outdoor School, students participate in hands-on, interactive learning activities. The curriculum emphasizes environmental science, ecology, and outdoor skills, enabling students to explore various natural settings across Oregon. The curriculum lessons encompass local ecosystems, wildlife, conservation, and sustainability, incorporating activities such as hiking, team-building exercises, and hands-on science experiments.
The program aims to foster a connection to nature, promote environmental stewardship, and enhance academic learning through experiential education. Outdoor School collaborates with local schools, organizations, and state parks to enhance resource availability and expertise for our kids.
Each site is staffed by 15-16 dedicated professionals who provide personalized attention to students. There are also student leaders who are predominantly high school and college students. They play a vital role in facilitating activities. They reside overnight in cabins with small groups of sixth graders, leading engaging outdoor activities that encompass field studies, games, skits, and songs.
The student leaders are incentivized to volunteer because they earn 100 community service hours each week, which enhances their college, scholarship, and job applications. Plus, they can earn three college credits. Many high schools offer transferable college credit for participation as part of the dual enrollment program. Plus, the student leaders learn effective communication, leadership, teamwork, and how to facilitate learning for younger students.
So, if you have a 6th grader, you know what to expect. Plus, the Northwest Outdoor Science School has a wonderful website that has what to pack, what to expect, and details about each location. It is a wonderful resource. And if you have a teenager, encourage them to be a student leader. It is great for the volunteer hours they may need to graduate, it bolsters their resume, and it offers them the ability to earn 3 college credits.
The Northwest Outdoor Science School is not merely an educational program; it is a transformative journey that connects students with nature, nurtures community, and develops the next generation of environmental stewards. It is a part of what it means to be raised in Oregon. Through hands-on experiences and the guidance of dedicated staff and student leaders, middle schoolers emerge with valuable knowledge and a lasting appreciation for the natural world.
Did you go to Outdoor School? Is your camp still around? What was your experience?
Johanna is married with two kids, three dogs, three cats, one leopard gecko, several chickens, and a few fish. She has been in the Pacific Northwest since the dream was alive in the 90s but has Southern roots and hails from Arkansas. The family spends a lot of time at some sort of sporting event for the kids. Johanna likes to fast craft, garden, host parties, and bake. Johanna and her crew go hard traveling, DIY-ing, and are always up for a new adventure or challenge.