Getting Started

There are a LOT of items to consider when planning an Outdoor School Program for students. In our opinion, these are the first essential steps:

 

Get funded!

In 2016, Oregon voters passed Measure 99 which designated a portion of lottery funds to Outdoor School programming. School Districts can apply to receive funding. For more information, contact OSU EXTENTION: OUTDOOR SCHOOL.

 
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Schedule date & Location

In western Oregon, the prime time for Outdoor School is fall and spring. The Gray Family Foundation has put together a list of residential camp facilities in Oregon.

 
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Choose an Outdoor School Provider

Choosing a program or a provider can be overwhelming. There are a variety of Outdoor School models and it’s important to find one that is a good fit for your school and students. Helpful things to consider when searching for a provider:

  • How many students will you have attending ODS?

  • How many days and nights?

  • Would you rather have everything facilitated and provided (facility, staff, food, curriculum, etc.) or would you like to be involved in the building of your ODS program?

WOODS Directors work collaboratively with administrators and teachers to build Outdoor School programming that is customized for your school. They will also work directly with administrators post ODS on reimbursement reporting requiremements.