"I noticed an elevated sense of community with the group of attendees and a renewed sense of enthusiasm for biology and ecosystems in general." - Teacher
"In the beginning I didn't like science. I don't know why, I just didn't find science very interesting. But then I went to Mount Rainier Institute, I appreciate science a lot more now." - Student
"We had so much fun and learned so much. It pushed our kids to a new level and they rose to meet the challenge. It was great to watch their growth as learners and people over the course of the short week." - Teacher
"Oh my gosh! You kind of just take it for granted... like oh... there's a mountain over there. But once you're up there you are like oh my gosh this place is beautiful and never make me leave." - Student
Multi-day overnight environmental education programs (outdoor schools) are powerful experiences for students. These programs are not only important sources of science education and academic enrichment, but they help students develop positive connections to the environment, foster awareness and appreciation, promote environmental stewardship, and support positive social and community development.
Despite the many benefits of outdoor schools, relatively few students in Washington have the opportunity to experience such important programs. This opportunity gap is particularly evident in the economically disadvantaged areas throughout Washington.
Mount Rainier Institute is committed to providing these experiences to all students. To do this we rely on the generous support from the philanthropic community. Funds are used to offset operating costs and to support tuition assistance to schools.
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Mount Rainier Institute
The University of Washington acknowledges the Coast Salish peoples of this land, the land which touches the shared waters of all tribes and bands within the Suquamish, Tulalip and Muckleshoot nations. Mount Rainier Institute is honored and grateful to provide programs that take place in the ancestral homelands of the Nisqually, Puyallup, Muckleshoot, Yakima, and Cowlitz.
Mount Rainier Institute provides outstanding nature-based education experiences that are rooted in science and nurture the next generation of environmental stewards and leaders.