Environmental Education

Learning Through Nature

At West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science (WMAES), we believe that children are natural learners, and the world around them is the ultimate classroom. From preschool through 12th grade, our students experience education in a way that is hands-on, immersive, and deeply connected to the environment. West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science has made an exhaustive review of its curriculum to ensure that all students are receiving instruction aligned to the Michigan Core Curriculum. In addition, we have maintained our focus on incorporating environmental education throughout each student’s studies.

Why Environmental Education Matters

At WMAES, environmental education guides everything we do. Students learn science and sustainability through real-world exploration, develop problem-solving skills, and build responsibility and stewardship for the planet. Learning outside makes education engaging and memorable, helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally into conscientious, informed citizens.
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A Year of Exploration

Our curriculum integrates environmental themes alongside Michigan Core Curriculum standards. Each month, students explore a new topic inspired by the natural world:

September

Ecosystems & Living Things: Discover sprouts, soil, and the interconnections of life.

October

Land Use: Learn how humans shape and impact their surroundings.

November

Weather: Study the forces that move clouds and influence life.

December

Winter Ecology: Explore the adaptations and resilience of plants and animals.

January

Space & Global Issues: Examine Earth from a broader perspective.

February

Energy: Investigate renewable resources like wind turbines.

March

Natural History: Learn through tree rings, fossils, and local ecology.

April

Earth Day & Science Fair: Celebrate discoveries and share knowledge.

May

Water: Understand this vital resource and its role in ecosystems.

June

Agriculture: Experience farming, planting, and sustainable practices.

Our Outdoor Classrooms

We have five dedicated outdoor classrooms, each offering a unique setting for hands-on learning:

Children exploring a vibrant garden, experiencing natures beauty and wonder during sunlight.

Garden

Students learn among fruits, vegetables, pollinators, and hay bales
Friends enjoying a fun day by the river, dressed for adventure in nature.

Pond

A boardwalk hovering over the water invites observation, experimentation, and discovery
Children enjoying outdoor autumn activities among colorful fall leaves and joyful camaraderie.

Prairie

Rock perches and picnic tables for quiet study or interactive lessons
Two women in hard hats manage vegetation in a lush, green forest conservation area.

Forest

Lessons from benches or picnic tables surrounded by towering trees
Girls exploring nature, drawing amidst vibrant plants in a serene outdoor setting.

Meadow

Carpet squares beneath giant shade trees for everything from writing to group discussions

The WMAES Difference

At WMAES, students don’t just study science—they live it. By blending rigorous academics with environmental exploration, we prepare children to become thoughtful, responsible, and capable adults. Swap fluorescent lights for sunshine, desks for dirt, and textbooks for experiences—and you’ll see why WMAES is more than a school—it’s a community of learners shaping a better tomorrow.

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About West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science

West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science strives to provide an environment that will foster creativity, promote academic achievement, and develop sound character and citizenship principles.

Find Us

Phone Number

(616) 791-7454

Fax Number

(616) 791-7453

Hours

Elementary
8:00 a.m. – 3:15 p.m.

Secondary
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

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Hours

Elementary
8:00 a.m. – 3:15 p.m.

Secondary
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.