PEI Staff

Change is Afoot! Stay Tuned

A new era begins at PEI as Executive Director Kathryn Kurtz steps down and David Hartness joins the team. In the weeks ahead, look for a tribute to Kathryn’s impact on PEI and beyond from those who have worked with her over time, plus a welcome and introduction for David and a look ahead.

PEI Core Programs

When Every Kid Gets Outside: Building FieldSTEM District-Wide

The challenge isn’t convincing a handful of teachers to take students outside; it’s creating a system in which outdoor, place-based learning is an expected part of every student’s education.
 
In 2025, The Learning Institute published an article titled ‘Educating in the AI Era: The Urgent Need to Redesign Schools.’ The Learning Institute is a nonpartisan research organization that conducts independent research to improve education policy and practice in the United States. 
 
Contrary to what the title might suggest, the story advocated for an educational model rooted in experiential learning. 
 
“[The] contemporary science of learning and development confirms that young people grow and thrive in environments designed to support individualized development and inquiry-based, hands-on learning, where they have strong, supportive relationships, and where their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive needs are met,” said author Linda Darling-Hammond, Chief Knowledge Officer. “Policymakers must . . . shift accountability systems away from narrow test-based measures toward assessments that reflect real-world performance and deeper learning.”
 
To create such an environment, schools and school districts need a systemic approach that includes all teaching staff and students rather than just those who are already passionate about experiential education. PEI’s Systemic School and District Implementation core program is designed for such deeper work with educators who are ready to take their schools and districts to the next level with place-based, outdoor learning. 

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Green Jobs 

Workshop Gives Teachers a Behind-the-Scenes Look at Modern Forest Management

It’s possible to drive by a facility for years without understanding its function or role in the community. As one participant in a recent PEI workshop explained, “I’ve lived in Lewis County my whole life but never realized how the mill operates and how large-scale it is. It really is a valuable resource in our community.” 
 
The mill in question is Hampton Lumber’s Cowlitz Mill, which 21 K-12 teachers visited as part of an Engaging Communities in Forestry Education (ECFE) workshop. Cispus Learning Center hosted the two-day, in-person workshop designed to strengthen teachers’ understanding of forest management through hands-on experiences and engaging with forestry professionals. They also explored educational resources like Project Learning Tree (PLT) activity guides, reflected on their learning, and planned how they might implement those strategies with students. Hampton Lumber provided funding. 

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PEI Workshop

Introduction to FieldSTEM Asynchronous Course 

Introduction to FieldSTEM is an asynchronous, online course designed for K-12 educators interested in integrating outdoor, place-based learning into their instruction. Participants learn about the benefits of outdoor learning for students and how the FieldSTEM model helps them connect their current content to local issues. Through a combination of case studies, tasks, and personal reflection, participants develop the knowledge and skills needed to create meaningful FieldSTEM experiences for their students. By the end of the course, educators have established a solid foundation in the principles and practices of FieldSTEM, and are prepared to bring this engaging and impactful approach to their own classrooms.

Course Details:

• October 1 - October 22 (Participants have 3 weeks to complete the course once access opens.)
• 6 Washington State STEM clock hours (formal K–12 educators)
• Self-paced, asynchronous format
• Cost: $75 (see registration form for refund policy)

Register here: https://www.tfaforms.com/5231426

If you have already completed this course, please share this opportunity with your colleagues. We have a limited contact list and appreciate all help spreading the word.

Giving Campaign

Kathryn’s Retirement = Another Opportunity to Invest in PEI

After ten years, PEI’s fearless leader Kathryn Kurtz is stepping into retirement from her position as Executive Director. The idea for this campaign came from one community member who sent us a check with the message, "In honor of your many years directing PEI. It's so gratifying to know how PEI has shaped science education for so many students, their teachers, and the EE field generally. Thank you, Kathryn, and thanks for all that PEI does for FieldSTEM throughout the region!" Kathryn is inviting others to honor her departure by investing in PEI. Thank you to everyone who has contributed since this announcement went out last month.

From August 2 through October 2, we will be accepting contributions in her name. Make sure your message says ‘Kathryn’s Retirement Campaign’ or ‘In Honor of Kathryn’ so we’ll know what it’s for. What better way to honor her legacy? Thank you in advance!

Special Event

Join Us! Kathryn's Retirement Party

Join us! PEI's Executive Director Kathryn Kurtz is moving on to her next adventure and we're taking a moment to celebrate her many contributions to PEI and to education in our state. Please R.S.V.P. by September 16th.

Tools & Tips for Teachers

Boost Students' Creativity With Art Projects in Nature

Not all projects need to be taken home for prominent placement on the fridge. Creating art in nature is about connecting with your environment, being inspired by nature, and leaving it right where it was found. These activities use tools and materials found in nature to show children that anything can be art if you’re creative enough. Rocks, sticks, logs on the forest floor, even mud after a good rain can all be turned into art. 

There’s no age range on these activities, either. Adjust activities as needed to link back to existing school content and make projects a group effort where you see fit. The point is to leave the finished products behind. Photographs are fine, especially with sensitive kids who may have a tough time with that concept. 

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Upcoming Events 

  With Gratitude

Thank you, August investors!