Marcia Osoke is a natural teacher in every sense of the word. She is born to teach; she loves nature. Education is critical; and nature is the best teacher. How to combine them? How to successfully actualize her passions? How to gain public support to do so? Rising to the challenge Marcia and her colleagues created the John Muir Outdoor Charter School in Ashland, OR. 

Getting children outside to learn directly through interactions with nature brings forth a strong sense of place and belongingness. But Marcia doesn’t stop there. She knows that connection with nature leads to profound appreciation of interconnectedness of all life and all people. More compassionate approach to conflicts and greater academic achievement have resulted in the Oregon Department of Education designating the school “Outstanding” every year since 2012.

http://ashland.k12.or.us/SIB/files/John%20Muir%20Middle%20School%20Brochure%202018.pdf

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