Press Release 2010.04.26

(Bainbridge Island, WA )  Homewaters Project, Seattle’s innovative grass-roots education program originally built to extend children’s classroom learning to Thornton Creek, has joined forces with IslandWood to reach more Puget Sound area students and teachers and help them connect with the natural world.

Homewaters now operates under IslandWood while retaining its uniquely urban brand of investigative and experiential outdoor offerings.  North Seattle Community College, which previously provided office space and administrative support for Homewaters’ core staff of three, will officially pass the baton to IslandWood on July 1.

Founded by teachers as the Thornton Creek Project in 1992, Homewaters trains Seattle and Shoreline teachers in field science and applied learning by using the natural environment and by leading investigations of nearby nature for elementary and middle school students. 

“We specialize in providing outdoor learning opportunities inside the city - within walking distance from schools, homes, and urban neighborhoods,” said Chris Page, Executive Director of Homewaters.  “Our programs connect classroom learning to the real world via rigorous lessons that align with state and national education standards. By supporting teachers and students in their own neighborhoods, we foster greater community stewardship.”

The synergy between IslandWood and Homewaters will provide important benefits for the growth of both organizations. 

“The partnership bolsters Homewaters operations; and at the same time helps IslandWood reach beyond its Bainbridge Island campus to serve an estimated 2000-2500 more students each year with enhanced off-campus programming,” said Ben Klasky, Executive Director of IslandWood. “Working together, we plan to extend Homewaters' reach in coming years to serve many more students and teachers throughout the Puget Sound region with hands-on explorations of nearby nature that deepen and enrich classroom learning.”

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About Homewaters Project

Homewaters Project serves the students of the Seattle area, their teachers, and members of the community by providing training for teachers in field science, environmental and place-based education methods; facilitating sustainability and science education field programs for elementary and middle school students in local nature; and organizing community educational events. Homewaters aims to create an engaged and informed citizenry by connecting people to nature and each other in the context of their home communities. http://www.homewatersproject.org

About IslandWood

IslandWood is a unique 255-acre outdoor learning center providing exceptional learning experiences for all ages through experiential education, using the environment as a classroom, engaging diverse learning styles, integrating science and the arts, and showcasing sustainable practices. In keeping with its goal to inspire lifelong environmental and community stewardship, IslandWood offers overnight programs for fourth through sixth grade classes, community events, and a graduate residency in Education, Environment and Community in partnership with the University of Washington.