Who We Are
Honoring the Connection Between Past, Present, and Future
At Waskowitz Outdoor Education Center, we believe learning happens best when we are connected — to each other, to the land, and to the lessons of history. Our work is grounded in honoring the past, serving the present, and inspiring a hopeful future.
Our History — The Past
Waskowitz sits on the Indigenous land of the Coast Salish peoples, specifically the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe (sdukʷalbixʷ), who have been the original caretakers of this land since time immemorial.
We also recognize our secondary heritage as a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp from 1935 to1947 — a chapter that expanded public access to America’s parks, forests, and wild spaces.
In 1947, Highline Superintendent Carl Jensen established Waskowitz as a national leader in outdoor education — a legacy that continues today.
Our Mission — The Present
Connecting People and Place.
Today, our mission is to foster meaningful connections between people and the natural world. We create hands-on learning experiences that build curiosity, stewardship, and a sense of belonging — both in nature and within community.
Our Vision — The Future
We envision a future where all people are stewards of the land and have a profound connection to the outdoors and to one another.
Outdoor education can shape a future generation of compassionate leaders, environmental stewards, and connected communities.
Our Bedrock Values
Rooted in the Highline Promise to know every student by name, strength, and need, our values guide everything we do:
- Reverence for our history
- Stewardship of the land
- Joy in our work
- Belonging in community and the outdoors
- Respect for students as young leaders
- Care for one another
- Leadership in outdoor education
- Hope for the future
Our Commitment to Equity
We believe every student deserves access to meaningful outdoor learning experiences. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all students feel a sense of belonging, safety, and respect.
What This Means
- Our work is aligned with Highline Public Schools Board Policy 0010: Equity, Race & Identity.
- We actively seek to identify and remove barriers — physical, cultural, or otherwise — that may prevent students from fully participating in Waskowitz programs.
- We design our programs, facilities, and practices to reflect the diverse needs of the communities we serve.
Waskowitz is more than a place — it’s a living community where learning, growth, and connection happen every day.