Grow a Nature-Based School with Confidence

Practical toolkits, professional certification, and school accreditation designed to bring learning outdoors
Monthly online gathering for nature-school educators across the Southwest
Self-paced learning you can start today. No scheduling required
High-touch school accreditation and custom consulting engagements tailored to organizational needs.
Now enrolling

Start today

Three courses are open for immediate enrollment. Each one stands on its own — you don't need to be pursuing accreditation to take any of them.
For schools and districts

The path to NaturEd accreditation

Formal recognition for nature-based schools. Pricing is based on your student enrollment, so every school starts with a conversation rather than a checkout.
Step 01

Assess Where You Are

The Accreditation Orientation — a guided self-assessment with your NaturEd council.
Step 02

Build Your Pathway

We recommend the courses that close your specific gaps.
Step 03

Implement with support

Training, playbooks, and ongoing guidance as practice takes hold.
Step 04

Earn recognition

Submit your portfolio, host a site visit, earn the seal.
ABOUT US

What is NaturEd

NaturEd helps schools and educators cultivate nature-based learning communities where children, teachers, families, and the natural world grow in relationship with one another. Modeled after the success of Will Smith Zoo School and supported by San Antonio Zoo, NaturEd provides professional development, consulting, teacher certificate programs, and school accreditation for schools ready to deepen their nature-based practice. We believe nature is more than a setting for learning. Nature is a teacher, a relationship, and a pathway toward discovery, belonging, stewardship, and growth.

For Children

  • Enhanced creativity and better academic performance in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies
  • Increased focus and decreased absenteeism
  • Increased excitement and engagement for learning
  • Reduced aggression and discipline problems

For Educators

  • Renewed sense of purpose and professional identity
  • Richer, more dynamic teaching environments
  • Stronger relationships with students and families
  • Access to a supportive professional community
  • Clear pathways for growth and recognition

For Schools

  • Increased teacher motivation & well-being
  • Reduced stress
  • Greater professional joy & confidence

For Communities

  • Decreased community violence
  • Increased physical activity & quality of life
  • Improved social skills & reduced stress

Ready to grow your nature-based program?

Join a nature-based learning community with guidance rooted in reflection, relationship, and place.

NaturEd is an initiative of San Antonio Zoo and Will Smith Zoo School.

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Thank you!
  • 3903 N. St. Mary's Street
    San Antonio, TX 78212-3199
  • (210) 686-5606
  • info@natured.org
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