Foothill Horizons
Foothill Horizons Outdoor school inspires connections to nature and one another. We provide an interactive outdoor science experience, a collaborative learning environment and personal growth opportunities through individual challenges. Foothill Horizons Outdoor School develops respectful global citizens dedicated to stewardship in their communities and beyond.
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Foothill Horizons Outdoor School
We Teach
Our school offers children a chance to learn science through hands-on, interactive lessons aligned with Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards. Students experience a minimum of 5 hours of science instruction a day, equivalent to 5 weeks of science education in the average classroom in California. Students also develop social and personal skills such as teamwork, communication, responsibility and kindness through group living, daily team challenges and a collaborative learning environment.
We Provide Leadership Opportunities
Over 600 high school students each school year volunteer their time to be Counselors and role models for our overnight programs. These amazing young leaders join their student group on hikes, during meals, during games and evening activities. Their biggest responsibility is providing overnight supervision in the dormitories and helping to get their group to activities on time. Each counselor is coached throughout the week and receives written feedback on their performance that may even be used as a Letter of Recommendation for future employment.
We Prepare Future Outdoor Educators
Each school year, we select at least 5 outstanding candidates for our Naturalist Internship cohort. These individuals will learn student management skills, how to teach in the outdoors, best practices for writing lesson plans, contribute to the program operation behind the scenes and of course, teach students out on the trail. This 9-month internship is an ideal training ground for those who want to pursue a career in teaching.
WHY SHOULD YOU SEND YOUR CHILD TO FOOTHILL?
Skills for life! - Your child will be engaging in conversation, learning how to ask questions and make observations, working with others, sharing thoughts about the day over a meal, and overcome challenges.
Social and Emotional Growth! - Your child will make new friends, find a bit of independence by managing their time and decisions, and will get to try new things.
Science knowledge! - Your child will get hands-on experience being a scientist by making observations, developing an argument based on evidence, and will begin to see the ways all things are connected.
Self Confidence! - Your child will discover that they are a strong and capable learner.
Memories that last a lifetime! - Climbing through the boulder caves, visiting the creek, hiking to the top of the Sky Tower to see the stars, singing together at Campfire... just to name a few.
Experienced staff! - Many of our Naturalists have been part of the Foothill Family for decades, so we know how to make your child's week the best ever.
... and of course... Over 60 years of tradition!
Administration Team
Jessica Hewitt
- Schedule a class for Outdoor Ed
- Students with Special Needs
- Busing & Transportation
- Hiring
Clare Olson
- Foothill Merchandise
- Billing & Contracts
- Outdoor Ed Paperwork
- Site Rentals
Diann Rastetter
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The Counselor Program
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Naturalist Internship
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Website & Social Media
Alexander Frierson
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Weekly schedules
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Evening Program
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Technology Support
Lucas Smith
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Medication Administration
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Health Concerns
Shannon Perez
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Menus
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Food Allergies
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Special Diets
Edward Wynimko
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Facilities & Maintenance
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Grounds
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Vehicles & Buses