Outdoor school is a wonderful way for students to learn while being immersed in the wilderness. Outdoor school students are educated on animals, plants, soil, and water. These sessions also facilitate team building and social-emotional learning. Claire McOmie, a Camas High School (CHS) senior, has participated in outdoor school as a student leader.

“Each school brings their kids to the site for a week. We have field studies, games, campfires, and a bunch of other weird stuff,” said McOmie. 

As a student leader, McOmie has noticed the positive impact outdoor education has had on students attending.

“Outdoor school has made me a very patient person. If you can make it through a week of outdoor school, you can do anything,” said McOmie. 

As a student leader in charge of middle schoolers, patience is key. The impact of working at an outdoor school doesn’t stop short of teaching younger kids about the environment as the other student leaders and mentors are a positive influence.

“I have also met some of the most incredible people and mentors who have shaped me as a

person as well as how I think about the world,” said McOmie. 

McOmie is very grateful for the time she has spent with her coworkers in this program.

“My most impactful experience at outdoor school was when one of my kids cried because he had to leave. At the beginning of the week, he had acted way too cool for outdoor school, so seeing the transformation there was super special,” said McOmie.

 The outdoor school supports children in growing their knowledge of the environment, and also themselves. McOmie has seen many students thrive outside of their comfort zone.

“The students and staff members at outdoor school are universally awesome, and it is one of the most supportive environments that I have ever experienced,” said McOmie. 

Outdoor school is a great way to make a difference in the lives of others, work in a beautiful place, and develop impactful relationships. 

“You have to miss a week of school, unless you go over spring break. From my experience, teachers are very accommodating as long as you give them enough notice! And while at outdoor school, you will be provided with homework time,” said McOmie. 

Outdoor school in the fall takes place during school, but if you are interested in participating in the program you will most likely be able to take that time off school to learn unique skills. 

“If you are outdoorsy or adventurous, you will probably enjoy it more!” said McOmie. 

If you enjoy nature and you like discussing its qualities that you don’t typically hear about in school, you should look into outdoor school.