Nature-Based Learning for Schools & Educators
Partnering With White Pine Programs
White Pine Programs collaborates with K–12 schools, teachers, and administrators to integrate nature-based learning into everyday school culture. Whether you are looking for hands-on student field trips, active outdoor recess models, or professional development to boost outdoor teaching confidence, we tailor every experience to your school’s unique goals and location.
Our School Offerings
Hands-On Field Trips (On-Site & Partner Preserves)
Bring curriculum to life with immersive outdoor learning experiences. We can bring the program directly to your school grounds or host your group at one of the preserves owned by York Land Trust.
Customized to Your Curriculum:
Programs are tailored to grade-level standards or custom themes (e.g., ELA extensions of the Book, Hatchet with survival skills, multi-day “Artist in Residence” programs, STEAM days, and ecology labs). Our field trips run from ~$12 – $20 per student, depending on length and location.
Flexible Options: Available as full-day or half-day experiences for all grade levels.
Funding & Grant Assistance: Financial support and grant writing help are available to ensure equitable access for your school.
Facilitated Wild Play Recess
A restorative, nature-based recess model designed to introduce ecological literacy and give every student an engaging outlet for what can be for many children, the toughest part of their school day.
Energetic Ecological Games: Active role-playing games that teach predator-prey dynamics and ecosystem health in real time.
Quiet & Creative Stations: Inclusive, low-sensory activities for students seeking calm engagement (e.g., track casting, nature art, bird watching, feather and shell exploration).
Hands-On Discovery: Respectful interactions with local wildlife specimens and habitats that cultivate curiosity and emotional regulation.
Flexible Models: Choose direct facilitation, activity bank licensing, or custom recess system design for your staff.
Professional Development & Educator Coaching
Empower your teachers and administrators with the confidence, tools, and safety protocols to teach outside effectively. We can work with individuals or districts on an hourly or project basis.
1-on-1 & Team Coaching: Personalized guidance on outdoor classroom management, restorative strategies, and interdisciplinary unit planning.
Curriculum Design & Adaptation: Modify existing lessons for outdoor learning that highlight the ecology of your school’s backyard.
Land & Property Assessments: On-site walk through of your school grounds to identify potential outdoor classrooms, stewardship projects, habitats, and safety considerations.
Administrative Consultations: Strategic guidance for school leadership looking to build long-term, sustainable nature-based education initiatives.
Workshops & Book Studies: Custom hands-on workshops and guided professional book discussions for teaching teams.
“I have seen firsthand how our students were rejuvenated by the gift of increased outdoor learning and nature activities. I’ve noticed an increased level of excitement and engagement with my students. They have a new appreciation of the outdoors and are naturally curious about everything they observe!”
Raina Martinec Walcek, 2nd Grade Teacher, Coastal Ridge Elementary School, York, Maine
Bring White Pine to Your School
Ready to collaborate? Requesting a program is simple.
What to Include in Your Request:
1. Contact Information: Name, position, school/organization, and grade level/age group.
2. Preferred Dates: 3 prospective dates (half-day or full-day preferences).
3. Program Goals: Specific themes, academic standards, or outcomes you wish to target.
4. Funding Needs: Let us know if you require financial aid or grant writing assistance!
Get in Touch:
Email us at: Samm@whitepineprograms.org
Call us at: 207-361-1911