We Bring the Classroom Outdoors!

The impact of Outdoor School is best told by those who have experienced it firsthand. Our Founder, Karra Jackson, has worked with countless individuals. Here, a few of their stories capture the power of bringing the classroom outdoors.

  • “Some of my best Outdoor School experiences happened under the guidance of the Camp Director, Karra Jackson."

    “This woman oozed love for her program, students, teachers, and High School Mentors. Everyone involved would come away from the week feeling cherished, as well as challenged, to take better care of one another and the environment.”

    - Kathy V., 6th-Grade Teacher, WA

  • "A true vision of what life could be like if we all work together to be the best we can be.”

    “Outdoor School truly is a life changing experience for the students, High School Mentors, and teachers. Kindness, cooperation, and respect are required from everyone. That shared respect allows Outdoor School to become one of the most special places on earth.”

    - Lex C., 6th-Grade Camper, High School Mentor, and Volunteer

  • "It was a fresh start, in a new environment, for some kids who may have struggled with a typical classroom setting."

    “As a teacher, I took my sixth-grade class to Outdoor School for years, and the experience was top-notch. Every child was cared for, academic lessons came to life, and for most of my students, Outdoor School was the highlight of their sixth grade experience.”

    - Tod H., 6th-Grade Teacher, WA

  • “I often think about the life lessons I learned at Outdoor School and can directly credit my proudest achievements to the confidence it bestowed upon me."

    “I had the privilege of attending Outdoor School as a sixth grader and it was one of, if not the most, transformational experiences of my life. This led me to return as a High School Mentor and adult volunteer. There is no doubt I am a better, more well-rounded person today because of Outdoor School.”

    - Alex D., 6th-Grade Camper, High School Mentor, and Volunteer

  • “This is largely due to the exceptional leadership of Karra Jackson, who is without a doubt the best Camp Director I've ever worked with."

    “I've had the privilege of taking my fifth graders to Outdoor School for over 15 years, and I can confidently say that the experience has been transformative for my students. At Outdoor School, my students grow in ways that are hard to achieve within the walls of a traditional classroom. Karra’s compassion and understanding as a director create an environment where every child feels safe, supported, and inspired.”

    - Lisa R., 5th-Grade Teacher, WA  

  • "I am the person I am today because of Outdoor School.”

    “I went to Outdoor School for the first time as a senior in high school. It broke me out of my shell and unlocked the best version of myself, one I never knew was possible. My family and friends saw an immediate change in me.

    The atmosphere at Outdoor School is infectious in the best way; campers and Mentors alike can grow in a safe place where they are supported, cared for, loved, seen, valued, and respected.”

    -Tyler L., High School Mentor and Volunteer

  • "Outdoor School was invaluable for my students' personal and interpersonal growth."

    “I went to Outdoor School for the first time as a fairly new teacher and was able to fully enjoy my time thanks to the support, friendship, and love consistently shown to me and my students by the Director, Karra Jackson.

    My students learned how to embrace and be themselves, and more truly and genuinely see and support each other, once they returned to school.”

    - Stephen K., 6th-Grade Teacher, WA/OR

  • "I was the very best version of myself while I was at Outdoor School."

    “I attended Outdoor School as a sixth grader, and it forced me to come out of my shell in the best possible way! I made new friends, had heartfelt conversations, and witnessed firsthand what it meant to lead by example.

    I returned as a High School Mentor because I wanted to have the same impact on students that my Mentors had on me. I am forever grateful for the impact it had on my life and how it shaped the person that I am today.”

    - Haley C., 6th-Grade Camper and High School Mentor

  • "The work I have done through Outdoor School has been some of the most fulfilling and joyous memories I’ve experienced.”

    “I have felt nothing but love and support during my time working with Karra Jackson, especially being an open LGBTQ+ individual. In high school, I wanted to explore volunteer opportunities to build skills toward my dream, a current job as an elementary school teacher. Being a High School Mentor only helped deepen my passion for learning and teaching!”

    - Izzy P., High School Mentor and Volunteer

  • "Under Karra Jackson's direction, Outdoor School is a place where students, teachers, and High School Mentors are supported!"

    “I had the privilege of working with Karra Jackson, as a teacher bringing sixth graders to Outdoor School, and as a volunteer, training High School Mentors. Outdoor School was a great opportunity to “unplug” while learning about and enjoying nature. It was a life-changing experience for my students, as they returned more confident and bonded as a class, and with me as their teacher.”

    - Stacey L., 6th-Grade Teacher and Volunteer, WA

  • "I believe every child deserves the opportunity to be a part of Outdoor School, as it provides a unique space for personal development."

    “Mentoring at Outdoor School had a lasting impact on my confidence that continues to shape me today. The safe and positive environment allowed me to grow in ways I never imagined, and gave me tools for personal growth that have stayed with me long after the experience ended. The lessons learned there are invaluable, and the impact can last a lifetime.”

    - Miranda K., High School Mentor

  • "Outdoor School offers self growth, community, and an opportunity for everyone to be their best selves without the fear of judgment."

    “I went to Outdoor School for the very first time as a 5th-grade student, and I can tell you with full confidence, that it changed my life for the better. It set me on a course for adventure and life experiences, including becoming a High School Mentor. It truly is a magical place!”

    - Jake N., 5th-Grade Camper and High School Mentor