How is Kestrel different?

Kestrel is not your typical environmental or outdoor education program.

Here are some key ways we stand out.

Authentic

When real field scientists conduct field science, they seek answers to mysteries. They use their senses and data they collect, along with background resources, to make discoveries. Our students conduct real science. We ask them questions we want answers to. We ask a lot of them; to measure, record, observe, analyze, understand, and communicate their findings. They are true scientists.

Learner Centered 

A Kestrel program is an adventure. We don't give our students templates or prescriptive instructions. Our students lead the way, generating original ideas, contributing their voices to original projects, and challenging and supporting each other. 

Sense of Belonging

We teach everyone they belong to and in the natural world. We teach them, through immersion, that all lives are interconnected and that humans can have healthy relationships with the natural world. We don't tell children they are visiting animals' habitats, or ask them to solve adult problems. We encourage responsible off trail roaming and tinkering; building shelters, climbing trees, and building real connections to wild places and wild things. 

Our staff are experienced, knowledgeable professional educators and naturalists. They understand child development, how to support learning, and the complexities of the natural world. This allows them to use a flexible teaching model based on paying attention to students and how they are learning and responding.

Research shows that an authentic, learner centered, connected approach is the best way to grow understanding, overcome misconceptions, and raise active scientists and environmentalists.