The Ecology School

★★★★★Stephanie Garcia Martinez

Such an incredible Winter Teacher Institute. Everyone at the Ecology School took such wonderful care of us and planned an exciting itinerary. When speaking to Meg, she mentioned "this is our love letter to teachers" and I most certainly attest that I felt it with every detail!

★★★★★Lauren Couto

I had an incredible experience at The Ecology School during last weekend’s Teacher Institute. I traveled up from the Bronx, and the entire weekend was thoughtfully designed, welcoming, and deeply impactful. As an urban teacher, getting students outside—especially in winter—can feel intimidating. This Institute gave me practical, realistic strategies for year-round outdoor learning that actually feel doable in a real classroom setting. The sessions were engaging, well-paced, and grounded in the realities teachers face every day. The educators and program staff were outstanding: knowledgeable, warm, and genuinely invested in building community. From hands-on learning to shared meals and time outside, everything felt intentional and restorative. I left feeling inspired, recharged, and excited to bring what I learned back to my students. The Ecology School is doing truly meaningful work for teachers and students alike. I’m so grateful for the experience and would highly recommend their programs to any educator looking to reconnect with purpose, nature, and effective teaching practice.

★★★★★Pam Dow

I just returned from the Teacher's Institute at River Bend Farm and cannot recommend this experience enough. Despite the sub-zero temperatures, the team—Meg, Wyatt, Jess, Alex, Jake, and Hannah—kept the energy high and the learning deeply engaging. They are incredibly friendly, helpful, and skilled leaders who make place-based education feel accessible and exciting. The networking was a major highlight; I met passionate educators from all over the Northeast and beyond, which sparked so many new ideas for my own classroom and students. Also, a huge shout-out to Chef Rich and team—the food was warm, nutritious, and absolutely delicious all weekend long. It was the perfect fuel for our outdoor adventures. If you are an educator looking for high-quality professional development in a stunning (and sustainable!) setting, The Ecology School is the place to be.

★★★★★Jay C

This place is amazing. They host wonderful workshops for educators and children. Beautiful campus, amazing food and a great team!

★★★★★Dawn Curtsinger

The Ecology School at RiverBend Farm in Saco, ME is quite simply amazing. I just enjoyed a 4 day teacher workshop there. The experience was so immersive and inclusive. Meg and Company are so intentional with the way they present info it's really something to experience and see. The grounds are lovely and the food is fresh, filling and delicious. Tide pool field trip- great adventure. The dorms are clean and simple. The few things I would critique are not a big deal and do not take away from the experience at all- is the comfort of the bed (I'm used to a purple mattress), the blinking green light on the air controls(simply put a band aid over it), the hallway light coming on anytime anyone gets out of bed at night to use the restroom ( wonder if pathway lights or some other form of safe guiding lights but low light could be used) and only having mirrors in the rest rooms (would be nice if they were in rooms as well; could use some form of glass that wouldn't break easy). Overall these things don't prevent you from having an amazing time and learning so much! I'm excited to start the new school year because of this program. They really spoil and take of the teachers while you are there. Can't say enough good things about this school. Highly recommend.