Transforming our Campus into a Living Laboratory

Thanks to your partnership, University School students are conducting original research across our campus, learning about our forest ecosystem, and carrying forward a 60-year legacy of environmental stewardship. Through your commitment to the US Annual Fund, dedicated US teachers are expanding hands-on science education and offering an even more rigorous curriculum, an important element of University School’s leadership in boys' education.

 

For generations, Outdoor Projects with the legendary Mr. Terry Harmon has offered young men transformative experiences on our campus. Students clear downed trees, work in the hatchery to stock the lake with trout, and harvest sap for the maple sugaring process. Through these foundational experiences, they learn to shepherd our campus resources while developing a lifelong appreciation for environmental stewardship.

 

Your support enables our teachers to think boldly about program enhancement and pursue professional development that inspires curricular change. This investment is already showing remarkable results:

Our Conservation Biology students created the first comprehensive field guide for our campus ecosystem. Inspired by their success, our science faculty have implemented a freshman biology curriculum unit focused on ecology and immersing our students in the life of our 200-acre campus.

"Students now engage directly with our campus, transforming abstract ecological concepts into tangible and relevant learning experiences," explains Dr. Sara Laux. "Early exposure fosters environmental stewardship and lays the foundation for deeper scientific thought."

This freshman experience opens doors to advanced scientific exploration. Students can pursue their interests through:

The Annual Fund empowers University School to:

Because of your partnership, more young men than ever are discovering their passion for science, engaging meaningfully with the natural world, and preparing for future academic and research opportunities.

Your continued support ensures University School remains at the forefront of science education while honoring our proud outdoor learning traditions.