Connecting schools to nature so that students thrive in class and life
City to Sanctuary is an education program that improves students’ belonging and engagement
Participating schools see measurable impact
98%
of students report gains in well-being through nature
100%
of principals report improved attendance, behavior and engagement
83%
of teachers report higher motivation and focus in the classroom
Schools carry a lot
Tight resources.
Stretched classrooms.
Burned-out teachers.
Falling attendance.
And, test scores that don’t reflect how hard everyone is trying.
City to Sanctuary helps schools bring students back —connected, engaged, and ready to thrive
A yearlong outdoor education program
Hands-on exploration at a consistent nature sanctuary that becomes “their place”—building comfort, confidence, and curiosity that carry back into the classroom.
What learning in nature looks like
Monthly immersive learning days in nature
Learning takes place at our partner sanctuaries.
Experiences rooted in student development and inquiry-based learning
Guided activities led by naturalists and experienced educators
Curriculum that aligns with the State’s science learning standards
Curriculum that aligns with the State’s science learning standards
100% of participating schools return year after year
“You can see it in their eyes — that rekindled sense of wonder and awakened curiosity that follows them back to the classroom”
— Dr. Maysaa Bazna
Built for the realities schools face
100% of principals report easy implementation within existing school constraints
Designed for public schools’ real budgets, real schedules, real staffing, and big needs.
Low lift, high impact
Schools express interest, we take care of the rest.
City to Sanctuary is grounded in over 14 years of educational practice and supported by research.
What schools say
“Our city students absolutely love hiking—it’s a chance for them to step outside their usual environment and explore something new. Working with the animals at the sanctuary deepens their empathy and sense of responsibility. We’ve seen real improvements in their academic skills too, as these experiences spark curiosity and strengthen critical thinking.”
“As a Title I public school, we work hard to balance rich experiential learning opportunities outside of the building, with the academic support our students need to pass the Regents—often with limited resources. We’ve remained in this program for three years because experiences like carefully removing the hook from a fish’s mouth, tasting real maple syrup for the first time, and ice fishing on a frozen pond create meaningful bonds between students and teachers, and we see their impact reflected back in the classroom and in our school’s culture.”
Take the first step
Help your students build confidence, curiosity, and connection.