COVID-Careful Learning, in the Out-of-Doors

Exploring the wetland trail

 
Newaygo-After months of unpredictability and constantly changing plans, parents are now facing the challenging decision over what school format is best for their children. Amidst caution with COVID, virtual options are appealing but often a barrier for parents with full time jobs or other responsibilities. To meet the needs of the local community, Camp Newaygo is launching a great solution, their Outdoor Learning Center! Jane Vitek, Camp’s Executive Director and a retired teacher, shared “We know how difficult it is to make the right choice for your child’s education this year. We hope the Outdoor Learning Center is a helpful, local option.”
 
Students enrolled in any virtual school option can spend their school day out at Camp! Half of their day will focus on academic virtual learning through their school’s selected platform. Camp Newaygo staff will be on hand to supervise and encourage students’ self-guided learning. The rest of the day will focus on embracing all of the outdoor adventures Camp Newaygo has to offer like canoeing, wetland walks, climbing the rockwall, and other outdoor learning. 
 
The Outdoor Learning Center day camp program is open to children entering 3rd through 7th grades, but space is limited. Students will participate in learning pods of no more than 8 for both virtual learning and active outdoor adventures. Small learning pods and other COVID careful practices utilized successfully during Camp’s summer season will continue to minimize risk and provide peace of mind to parents. 
 
The Outdoor Learning Center was developed with Camp Newaygo’s mission of service to local children and families in mind.  Parents can get additional information at campnewaygo.org/outdoor-learning-center/ 

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