Western Oregon Outdoor School

Our Mission

Fostering student curiosity, motivation and a sense of wonder when it comes to learning about the natural world.

What We STrive to Achieve

• Providing every student who attends Western Oregon Outdoor School programming with a safe, respectful and responsible learning environment

• A staff of qualified, positive role models

• Quality, relevant educational curriculum that aligns with a variety of content standards

• Encouraging students to look within and make connections about their role on the planet and how they may contribute to its various systems

WOODS Director, Jennifer Grube

Director, Jennifer (aka Periwinkle) developed her connection to the outdoors as a small child camping, fishing and playing in Oregonian forests. Her love for Outdoor School began when she attended as a sixth grader, learning that getting outside and using all available senses to explore made for a lasting educational experience. There was no question about whether she would participate as a high school cabin leader, and then, post-graduation as a field study instructor. Jennifer was hired as the Philomath Outdoor School Director in 2001 and has been directing ever since. Now providing programming for multiple schools in the Willamette Valley, she feels passionate more than ever about the importance of facilitating positive, interactive student learning that fosters human connection to community, state and planet.

In addition to being an Outdoor School Provider, Jennifer has a BS in Human Development and Family Science: Early Childhood Education, is the Program Director at Sandcastle Preschool (where she had previously taught since 2000), serves on the board of directors of Friends of Outdoor School, is involved with the Oregon Environmental Literacy Program, and stays current with Oregon State University Extension’s Outdoor School Program information.