The Great Blue Heron Community School

The Great Blue Heron Community School has been running since the beginning of Vermont Wilderness School over 20 years ago.  The program inspires young people to deepen their relationships with the natural world and each other. Youth gain life skills and confidence, guided by an experienced team of instructors. Our approach to nature connection emphasizes outdoor living skills, naturalist knowledge, dedication to community service and social equity, and social and emotional development.

At an important moment in 1999, a Great Blue Heron flew over our assembled circle of children and adults. Other Great Blues have appeared repeatedly since then throughout our school’s history, and we honor them with in our school logo and with this program.