Nature’s Classroom Institute

A Brief History

 In 1995, Geoffrey Bishop established Nature’s Classroom Institute of Wisconsin, Inc. in Spring Green, Wisconsin.   It gave school students the opportunity to experience a hands-on, multidisciplinary curriculum with an emphasis on field study and community-living.  An environmental educator himself, Geoffrey believed that students needed more than a typical classroom could offer them. 

Located at the rustic Wildwood Lodge, the fledgling not-for-profit program began bringing its innovative environmental education program to students from throughout Illinois and Wisconsin.  Use of this site, however, was discontinued after two years due to its three hour distance from Chicago.  In 1997, Nature’s Classroom Institute (NCI) relocated to the Perlman Conference Center in Mukwonago, Wisconsin. 

As part of NCI’s goal of continuing to grow in all aspects of the program, new curricula are created each season.  Historical simulations such as Struggle for America and Ellis Island, stewardship programs such as Alien Invaders, and an emphasis on science and mathematics all mark the distinctiveness of NCI from other outdoor education programs.  Teaching staff are encouraged to develop new, exciting classes to challenge both themselves and their students.  Hands-on technology, such as our lab computers, testing kits, and GPS satellite equipment are evidence of our dedication to providing students with the best in education.  In addition, NCI has created an alternative energy science lab to allow students to gain practical experience with useful solar and wind technologies.  This on-going project currently includes solar and fuel-cell model vehicles for study, a wind-generated motor for pond oxidation, a solar-powered weather station, and fuel cell demonstration materials. 

Nature’s Classroom Institute is also deeply committed to conservation and environmental issues. In 1998, NCI joined the Adopt-a-Lake program with Project Wet in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.   In addition, every member of the NCI teaching staff is a member the Wisconsin Association of Environmental Education (WAEE) and Geoffrey has served on their Board of Directors in various positions, including Chair. 

NCI is also member of the National Science Teachers Association, Wisconsin Science Teachers Association and the National Geography Society.  In 2002, Geoffrey was honored for his personal commitment to the environment with the Wisconsin Environmental Education Award for Non-Formal Educator of the Year. 

Nature’s Classroom has also partnered with the acclaimed Michael Field’s Agricultural Institute to create an organic garden program which teaches innovative biodynamic, organic farming practices to both children and adults.  The NCI farm includes a fully restored barn, a green house, and a large organic garden.  Students have the opportunity to learn about the goats, guinea fowls, and chickens that live at the farm. In 2003, Nature’s Classroom and Michael Field’s Institute published a joint agro-ecology curriculum handbook, providing teachers with an exciting, hands-on resource. 

Nature’s Classroom Institute has also branched out in other ways.  In 2002, Nature’s Classroom Montessori was formed.  Initially a school for 2 ½ to 5 year-old children, it continues to add grades as the student grow.  Ultimately, NCI plans to build a Montessori high school.  To achieve this goal, the first step in NCI’s Montessori expansion was begun in collaboration with our facility host organization, B’nai B’rith Beber.   In the fall of 2003, ground was broken for a new, multi-purpose building.  Designed by Gregory Aerts and Associates, architects widely recognized for their work with Montessori schools, the building incorporates environmental-friendly, energy efficient technologies.  The “Phase I” stage of construction, to be completed in early 2004, includes a fully automated observatory dome for star and planetary studies, as well as office, classroom, and dormitory areas.

From its inception, Nature’s Classroom Institute has been dedicated to providing our students with the finest and most exciting educational experience possible.  We have been equally committed to giving our teaching staff the opportunity to grow and learn in the field of Environmental Education and experiential learning.  As NCI continues to develop exciting new programming and programs, we will strive not simply to maintain the high standards of quality for which we have become known, but to exceed them.