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Thursday, September 2, 2010



Camp Orkila's OEE Program encompasses three areas of study:

Environmental Education focuses on nurturing a sense of appreciation for the natural world through an understanding of ecological systems. Surrounded by the natural world, our staff works to pique students' curiosity and guide their discovery experience. Basic ecological concepts are introduced and studied with an emphasis on how students can interact positively within natural systems. OEE instructors encourage exploration; learning is participatory to achieve each class' instructional objectives.

Challenge Education focuses on building cooperation, problem solving skills, trust, self reliance, and self esteem to build strong individuals and strong groups. OEE Instructors make every attempt to create a supportive and judgment-free atmosphere where individuals and groups are able to challenge themselves and learn through their experiences. We utilize an initiatives course, climbing wall and a high ropes course to help attain these goals.

Outdoor Education focuses on the many interrelationships between natural and social communities. By increasing the awareness of how individuals and communities interact with the environment, students explore the ways humans can make a positive impact in their homes and communities.

To discuss outdoor education opportunities at Camp Orkila for your school or group, contact:
Christy Shiers
cshiers@seattleymca.org
360-376-2678 Camp office
206-949-9825 Cell phone


We are looking forward to a wonderful year!  We hope you find this information useful as you plan your trip to Camp Orkila.

For Teachers:  The program planning information has been redesigned to provide focus to our program and to make the materials easier for you to access and use.  Accessing the materials online allows you to print and copy whatever you need.  You can also send specific groups of people such as parents, chaperones and even students directly to this site to download the materials that are designed for their use.  

Program Materials:
 Complete Program Planning Guide - This document contains all parts of the Program Planning Guide. The guide begins with a section that contains general information for all camp participants. If you download this document, it may not be necessary for you to download the individual parts.  We have included the individual parts as well in case you want the specific packets handy. 

Teacher Packet - This is the individual section of the guide that contains information    specific to teachers.  
 Environmental Education Class Guide  - This section outlines the class abstracts.
Pre-Camp Planner - This document is designed to be filled in electronically and emailed to the program director. 
 For Chaperones - This section of the program guide contains information specific to chaperones.
 For Parents - This section of the program guide contains information specific to parents.