Programs

Sharing Nature: An Educator’s Week

August 9 - August 14, 2026
Campers exploring the intertidal zone
Campers exploring the intertidal zone. Photo: Lindsay Strout

This is not your average professional development program! During this action-packed week you will learn approaches, methods, and activities for engaging both children and adults with nature. In our world, so many young people are isolated from nature in their daily lives. As educators, we have the power to rekindle this connection to nature for our students. Central to our work this week will be discussions around improving equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging in outdoor spaces. Our goal is for you to leave empowered to improve access to the outdoors in your own community! 

Throughout the week, you will explore an abundance of habitats on Hog Island like the tide pools, spruce-fir forest, marshes, bogs and streams. You will embark on a full day adventure to Eastern Egg Rock to see the restored puffin and tern colony. In a beautiful outdoor setting, these experiences provide a wonderful opportunity to learn new methods of teaching to bring home to your students. Some workshops may include incorporating art, journaling and social-emotional skills into your science lessons and techniques for teaching outside in any environment. Most importantly, you will join a community of fellow educators from a diversity of backgrounds. This will be a communal learning experience that is guaranteed to fill up your cup as you head into the new school year.  

Educator’s Week has been running since the camp opened in 1936. We hope you will come be a part of the long legacy of learning and laughter at Educator’s Week this year.  

4 Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) are available through the University of Southern Maine for completing the course. After the program, you will be given a link and instructions for how to access the credits. 

Pricing: Out of State Tuition: $1,525, In State Tuition (for Maine educators): $800

The base registration fee includes meals, housing, instruction, and all field trips. This price is based on a standard shared room (with 2 twin beds) a shared bathroom. A limited number of upgraded accommodations are available for an additional cost. Two upgrade options are a single room for solo travelers or a room with a private bath for two people traveling together. There are no single rooms with private bathrooms available. Please see our lodging page for more information.  

In state tuition is available for educators working in the state of Maine. Please contact hogisland@audubon.org from your work email to verify your eligibility.

Participants must arrange their own transportation to and from the Audubon dock in Bremen at the start and end of the session. Please see our transportation page for more information.  

There are several scholarship opportunities available to help participants attend Hog Island sessions! Please see our scholarships page for more information about Hog Island Scholarships. You should also check with your local Audubon chapter or bird club for additional opportunities. 

Requirements:  This program is open to all educators! No prior experience required. 

Director: Khavin Debbs

Instructors: TBA

NOTE: Audubon reserves the right to alter itineraries, instructors and particular arrangements, or to substitute similar itineraries or arrangements, at no penalty. If Audubon cancels a session, it will issue full refunds of all deposits or payments to the paid participants.

Testimonials:

“The camp was well-balanced and fulfilling. It was great to meet other educators and share our love for the environment together.” - Brianna, 2025 Camper

“Staff cultivated a welcoming, conscientious, and genuine environment, resulting in connection, conversation, deep learning and fun!” - 2025 Camper

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity to enjoy this magical place, recharge, and learn. I felt like a kid – free to play with purpose and explore, make friends, and have fun.” - 2025 Camper

“I felt so safe, respected, cared for, and supported. What an incredible & creative staff. So much coming back to my classroom and I am leaving with so much peace” - 2025 Camper

“An overall lovely experience that was professionally, personally, and intellectually fulfilling. Thank you for sharing this special place with me.” - Darla, 2025 Camper

“This program is life-changing. I learned so much and the beauty of Hog Island is unmatched.” - 2025 Camper

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