Growing and eating fresh zucchini, sweet corn, and tomatoes straight from the vine. Collecting water samples on a field trip to Lake Michigan. Designing solar-powered boats, observing beekeepers, and tapping sugar maples in the school forest. 

These are just some of the exciting ways young people are learning and building real-world skills at SEEDS EcoSchool in Northern Michigan while they enjoy time in the great outdoors, make new friends, and make a difference in their community. 

Izzy, an eighth grader at Benzie Central Middle School, has been an EcoSchool student for three years. Whether it’s taking a field trip or getting help with homework, Izzy’s acquired a powerful enthusiasm for learning.

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“I love how much joy it brings her. I like how they do education, but it’s fun-based learning. She’s learning, and she doesn’t even realize it.” said EcoSchool parent Jen McGillivray.

SEEDS partners with rural schools in Northern Michigan to offer afterschool and summer programs that encourage young people to explore our state’s diverse ecosystems, enjoy screen-free learning, and build ties within their community. Staff help youth connect to nature and each other as they build life and leadership skills through outdoor activities. Educators at SEEDS are not only passionate about protecting our planet–they’re committed to making learning fun and investing in the next generation of leaders.

I love how much joy it brings her. I like how they do education, but it’s fun-based learning. She’s learning, and she doesn’t even realize it.”

[.attribution-name]Jen McGillivray[.attribution-name]
[.attribution-location]Parent[.attribution-location]

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Site supervisor Britney Brintzenhoff brings a unique experience that makes her an even more incredible mentor to the kids: She was a SEEDS student herself.  

“I try to provide the same support to kids now that I received from SEEDS when I was in middle school. When kids have a rough day, I talk to them about it, help them come up with solutions, and offer a shoulder to cry on if they need it,” said Britney. 

With support from the Michigan Department of Education, SEEDS EcoSchool has been hosting 21^st Century Community Learning Centers since 2009 that provide students with free year-round out-of-school time enrichment, including STEM, arts and culture activities, field trips, and physical activity. Students themselves report many benefits from participating, such as having quality interaction with peers, support from adults, and opportunities to increase their health awareness.

Learn more about how SEEDS EcoSchool is inspiring youth in rural Michigan to create a greener future for us all.