For Parents

and Nature Academy Families

Jason Everett shares his perspective on nature-based learning and his family’s experience with Elachee Nature Academy. WATCH VIDEO

Your Involvement

A Critical Success Factor

Parent Orientation

Attend Parent Orientation (without your student present) to meet the Elachee Nature Academy staff and see what’s in store for your child.

Classroom Volunteer

Volunteer in the classroom, if possible. Lead teachers will share details and opportunities throughout the school year.

Elachee Volunteer

Fundraising Event Volunteer

For 2022, the annual Flights of Fancy Benefit is planned for Saturday evening, October 22.

Volunteer to serve on the Host Committee. This is a 10-month commitment that includes monthly planning meetings, with more frequent activity throughout the month and days leading up to the event.
Volunteer to work at the annual Flights of Fancy Benefit. Commitment includes one training session the week of the event and a six-hour event shift during the event.

Seasonal Public Programs Volunteer

Serve on an event planning committee (6-month commitment) or help out on event day.

Trillium Trek Trail Run
Event Date: Saturday morning, April 23, 2022
Wildlife Festival
Event Date: Saturday, September 10, 2022

Parent/Teacher Conferences

Participate in the semi-annual parent/teacher conferences (October and April).

ENA Communications

Read the flyers your child brings home and the Elachee eNewsletters we send.

Elachee Events

Attend Elachee Nature Academy Scheduled Family Activities

Take a Hike in Chicopee Woods
To become acquainted with the Nature Preserve your child visits each school day.

Participate in Elachee Seasonal Public Programs and/or Adult Learning Programs.

Parents Talk

About Nature School

“I am delighted my children have a place where they learn the out-of-doors are not only places to be studied and appreciated, but places of adventure, fun, learning and laughter.”

“My daughter loves bugs, trees, lizards and snakes because Elachee helped bring that wonder into her world.”

“We would have stayed forever if it were possible and would do it again in a heartbeat!” #bestschoolever

“Our son is thriving, making great friends and learning so much.”

“We moved here this year and were thrilled to find a program that focuses on nature and experiential learning!”

“I love the method of teaching and how my son is getting to learn in such a different and effective way!”

“We are so thankful to have found this option for our family.”

“My child says, ‘Mom let’s go on an adventure and see what we can find.’”

“I love this program for my grandchildren. It is so important that our young people learn about nature.”

“We LOVE ‘bug’ school. Our daughter has blossomed into such a talkative, adventurous little girl and her zest for the outdoors is off the charts.”

“I learn from my child every day, and watching her growing appreciation of nature inspires me.”

“Most kids only get this hands-on learning once a year, on a field trip.”