Why Watershed

Watershed Students develop as curious learners, adventurous spirits, and caring, committed global citizens.


Families and Students Choose Watershed Because…

  • We believe in students — in their ability to do work that matters in the world.

  • We know a strong community is the foundation of great learning.

  • We know we learn best when driven by questions.

  • Real-world learning — learning about the world directly in and from the world — is more effective than conventional second-hand learning.

  • If we want students to be caring, committed global citizens, they need to travel.

  • Schools should not just help students develop the skills and habits for future success, but should awaken their curiosity, expand their view of the world, and empower them to make a difference.

  • We are national leaders in research-based, future-focused, community-engaged education.

  • Experience matters. We've been doing this since 2004.

  • Because the world needs more curious learners, creative problem solvers, adventurous spirits, and caring, committed global citizens. The world needs changemakers.

Education is way beyond four walls and a classroom. It’s about creating an environment for students to learn about real world challenges, solve problems and become empathetic leaders.
— Alum '16

adventure education

We Spark Adventure & Wonder…


A WATERSHED STUDENT IS:

  • Curious about the world.

  • Eager to go off campus.

  • Mature enough to work independently.

  • Ready for overnight trips away from home.

  • Able to adapt to new situations.


We Foster inquiry & community


A WATERSHED STUDENT IS:

  • Able to ask good questions.

  • Willing to have their initial ideas challenged.

  • More interested in creating a new answer than being told the "right" answer.

  • Able to show social intelligence, self-control, and empathy in a group.

  • Open to the give and take of collaboration.

inquiry and community

take on challenges

We help build character and the ability to take on the world’s greatest challenges…

A WATERSHED STUDENT IS:

  • Open to conversations about character as well as academic progress.

  • Willing to give and receive meaningful feedback.

  • Eager to do real, hands-on work.

  • Ready to be challenged by the expectations of a college preparatory program.

  • Excited about making the world a better place.