Youth engagement has always been a top priority for SEEDS because we believe that investing in youth is critical for the world today and for the world tomorrow.
In 2009, our youth programming exploded in size with Michigan Department of Education funding, allowing us to spread our fun, place-based approach to learning across Northern Michigan.
Throughout the past 15 years, SEEDS has been deeply embedded in nine school districts and has served the students of at least 27 local schools.
Our teachers and mentors have positively impacted the lives of thousands of youth. We are incredibly grateful to all of them for spreading their contagious joy for life and love for nature. Because of their commitment, thousands of youth are more resilient, compassionate, healthy, active, and connected to nature and each other.
— 2022-2023 SCHOOL YEAR —
84%
of students
report benefits in
social-emotional learning
928
students
in EcoSchool
programming
100
hours
per student
(on average)
A look at EcoSchool today
Presently, SEEDS EcoSchool is embedded in 13 schools providing academic and cultural enrichment after school four days per week all year plus six weeks of summer camp. Each elementary and middle school site is a licensed childcare center, and though we are meeting a critical need for childcare, SEEDS EcoSchool is so much more. Our teaching staff in Benzie, Fife Lake, Kaleva, Kalkaska, Marion and Mesick prioritize hands-on and outdoor activities that develop leadership, life skills, and resilience.
In addition to our robust out-of-school-time programming, our educators are also in school-day classrooms and hosting field trips. Students are learning about healthy living through nutrition, gardening, and movement. Student groups from across Northern Michigan are learning about regenerative agriculture and habitat restoration while on field trips to the SEEDS Farm at Historic Barns Park in Traverse City.
