ECoS
ECoS (which stands for Earth, Community Self) is a science class unlike any other in the country: our classroom is the state of Oregon, we learn frequently outside of our personal comfort zones, and our classmates become family.

“Deepening students’ critical thinking, creative thinking and sense of community through an outdoor, place-based science and art experience.”

ECoS (which stands for Earth, Community Self) is a science class unlike any other in the country: our classroom is the state of Oregon, we learn frequently outside of our personal comfort zones, and our classmates become family.

In addition to learning at school, we spend time in forests, mountains, deserts, the coast, and even inside a volcano integrating the concepts we learn with real-world adventure and experience.  The class centers around community and personal growth, with several expeditions to various parts of the state (in various seasons), including:

  • Camping, hiking and caving in the Mt. Washington Wilderness
  • Backpacking in the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness
  • Forest canopy studies (tree climbing) in an old-growth forest
  • Nordic Skiing, snowshoeing and snow caving in the Cascades
  • Surfing and oceanography on the Oregon Coast
  • Rock Climbing at Smith Rock
  • Climbing, adventure racing and solitude in the high desert of Eastern Oregon

We accept a limited number of 8th grade students each year who are self-motivated, trustworthy, active, focused, team-players who are willing to step outside their comfort zone in order to grow and learn.  ECoS is funded entirely by private donations, and has been growing young scientists and adventurers since 2014.