During the first full week of June, eighteen passionate Pre-K through 6th grade teachers from across Northern New Mexico packed their hiking boots and headed to the breathtaking landscape of Ghost Ranch. From June 9–11, they took part in a transformative, three-day retreat hosted by the Santa Fe Outdoor Education Collaborative (SFOEC)—a first-of-its-kind, summer camp-style experience designed specifically for educators.

SFOEC is a collaborative effort between Santa Fe Botanical Garden, Audubon Southwest and the Santa Fe Watershed Association, working together since 2018 to support teachers in delivering engaging, standards-based life science education through outdoor experiences. With support from the LANL Foundation, the group has hosted annual workshops for years. but this immersive retreat was something new entirely.

“This retreat was about more than just science content,” shared one SFOEC facilitator. “It was about building confidence, community, and a deeper connection to the land.”

Over the course of three days, teachers from Santa Fe Public Schools, Rio Grande School, Española Public Schools, and Albuquerque Public Schools stepped into the rich ecology of Northern New Mexico. Through hands-on sessions in birds, plants, soil, water, and energy, educators explored the region’s natural systems while learning how to bring those concepts to life for their students. Activities included nature journaling, ecosystem mapping, mindfulness practices, and outdoor teaching techniques, all rooted in inquiry, observation, and joyful discovery.

 

“Being submerged in a beautiful outdoor setting brought home the fact that learning is much more provocative outside,” shared one participant. “Hands-on activities should be 100% of learning.”

Another teacher reflected, “I love the nature journaling and mindfulness exercises. I feel confident implementing those right away.”

But the retreat wasn’t just about content, it was also about care. With the school year behind them and no screens in sight, educators were able to recharge in community, walking shared trails, journaling at sunrise, and connecting under the wide New Mexico sky. It was a reminder that professional development can be rejuvenating, relational, and rooted in place.

This inaugural retreat marks a new chapter for SFOEC and the educators it supports. By investing in teachers, equipping them with tools, knowledge, and renewed passion, the Collaborative is planting seeds for a generation of students who are more connected to the natural world and inspired to care for it.

🌐 Learn more about the Santa Fe Outdoor Education Collaborative at www.sfoec.org