2024 Donor Impact Report
We are thrilled to share the 2024 Donor Impact Report, celebrating the incredible impact of your generosity in bringing hands-on science, adventure, and leadership experiences to kids!
How We Use Journals
You might wonder why our curriculum includes a journal. Why have students write when they already do that in school? Isn’t outdoor school about experiencing trees, rocks, and streams beyond the classroom walls? Journaling deepens learning by connecting experience with reflection.
Year in Review 2024
Check out Keystone Science School’s 2024 Year in Review video!
Meet Eric Rightor: Our New Executive Director!
Meet Eric Rightor: Our New Executive Director!
2024 H2O Outdoors Impact Report
H2O Outdoors is a standards-based, educational program hosted at Keystone Science School and available to all Colorado high school students. Over the course of three days, students participate in a stream survey, expert panel, and town hall meeting to gain a broad understanding of the human and environmental complexities of water management in Colorado and,…
2024 Girls in STEM Impact Report
In 2024, Keystone Science School’s Girls in STEM program provided unique and inspiring opportunities for 74 female-identifying/non-binary students to explore the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and math.
2024 Summit School District Partnership Impact Report
2024 was a remarkable year for Keystone Science School, marked by the continued success and growth of our Summit Day Camp and Pathfinders programs.
2024 Camp Impact Report
We are thrilled to share the 2024 Camp Impact Report, celebrating another impactful summer at Keystone Science School, where we served 1600 campers across 2400 sessions (weeks) of camp.
Interim Appointment of Executive Director at Keystone Science School
Interim Appointment of Executive Director at Keystone Science School Effective August 16, 2024, we are pleased to announce that Michelle Perl, a long-tenured and highly respected member of our team, has been appointed as the Interim Executive Director of Keystone Science School. Michelle has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to our mission over the years,…
The Story of Keystone Science School (Part 3)
The journey through time concludes as we explore our most recent history.
The Story of Keystone Science School (Part 2)
The journey through time continues as we explore the fascinating history and enduring legacy of this iconic institution.
Exploring the Historic Cabins of Keystone Science School Campus
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the Keystone Science School campus holds a rich history within its collection of cabins. These cabins, once integral to the operations of the surrounding town of Keystone, now serve as a testament to the area’s past, offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers, loggers, and…
The Story of Keystone Science School (Part 1)
Join us on a journey through time as we explore the fascinating history and enduring legacy of this iconic institution.
Camp Legends and Warriors (CLAW)
Every summer at Keystone Science School, with the backdrop of towering pines and the pristine waters of Dillon Reservoir, a legendary event unfolds at Discovery Deluxe – Camp Legends and Warriors, or CLAW for short. It’s a time when campers become entwined in an epic battle of camaraderie and competition, where alliances are forged, challenges…
Photo Recap 2023: Adventures
Embark on an exhilarating journey through the best moments of Adventures 2023 with captivating photos that capture the thrill of exploring Colorado’s stunning parks, monuments, and most scenic natural environments by foot, rope, and watercraft. From thrilling outdoor escapades to moments of discovery, each snapshot encapsulates the joy of exploration and shared experiences. Get ready…
Photo Recap 2023: Pathfinders
Enter into a visual journey through the highlights of Pathfinders 2023 with captivating photos that showcase the fun and unity. From outdoor adventures to team challenges, each picture encapsulates the joy of shared experiences. Get ready for more thrilling adventures in 2024 as we dive into new memories together!
Photo Recap 2023: Day Camp
Experience the best moments from Day Camp 2023 through lively photos that showcase the fun and camaraderie. From games to outdoor adventures, each picture captures the joy of summer days spent together. Get ready for more thrilling experiences in 2024 as we create new memories!
Photo Recap 2023: Discovery Camp
Explore the highlights of Discovery Camp 2023 through dynamic photos that capture the fun and unity. From outdoor adventures to games, each picture embodies the joy of shared experiences. Get ready for more excitement in 2024 as we make this upcoming summer one for the books!
Camp Day: Where Costume Fun Reigns Supreme
As the week draws to a close at KSS Day Camp, all eyes are on the grand finale: Camp Day! It’s the ultimate celebration before saying goodbye, where laughter and excitement fill the air. One of the most anticipated aspects of Camp Day is the tradition of wearing costumes.
A Keystone of Our Community: Summit Day Camp
The heart of Keystone Science School lies in being a part of our community. We strive for ways to better support our local families, and our biggest contribution is Summit Day Camp. This program serves not just as a place for fun and learning but as a crucial support system for families, especially those in…
2023 Donor Impact Report
Hear from our board chairman, CEO, read financial data and more in our 2023 Donor Impact Report
Ready, Set, Pack: Your Ultimate Guide to Discovery Camp Essentials!
Summer camp is a time-honored tradition that offers unforgettable experiences and memories for campers of all ages. Whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned veteran, packing for summer camp can sometimes feel overwhelming. Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to pack for a successful and enjoyable summer…
The Impact of Girls in STEM
Hear from Anna, our School Year Program Manager, on the impact Girls in STEM at KSS has on the kids that experience it!
Favorite Themed Week of Camp – Part 2, Day Camp
Now its time to hear from our Day Camp staff on which themed week of day camp is their favorite!
Favorite Themed Week of Discovery Camp
What is your favorite themed week of Discovery Camp? Hear from a few of our staff about what theme they like the most!
Unveiling the Summer Camp Legends at Keystone Science School
Picture this: a summer camp where adventure meets whimsy, and every corner of Keystone Science School is alive with the antics of legendary figures. KSS introduces a unique twist – the presence of Camp Legends who play an integral role in shaping the campers’ adventures. In this blog, we unveil three iconic figures that roam…
The Value of Our Outdoor Education Programs
Our multi-day field trips offer more than just a break from the traditional classroom; they are an opportunity for transformative learning and personal discovery.
Favorite Day of Camp – Part 2, Day Camp
Now its time to hear from our Day Camp counselors on which day of camp is their favorite!
The Impact of Summer Camp
Hear from our Ian, our Summer Programs Director, on the impact summer camp at KSS has on the kids that experience camp!
Favorite Day of Discovery Camp
What is your favorite day of Discovery Camp? Hear from a few of our staff about what their day they like the most!
Year in Review 2023
Check out Keystone Science School’s 2023 Year in Review video! Witness the impact on participants, students, staff and families in their own words. It has been another great year at KSS – from our educational programs to transformative outdoor experiences, and we extend heartfelt gratitude to our donors and partners whose generosity made this impact…
2023 Summit School District Partnership
2023 Keystone Science School and Summit School District Partnership Summer 2023 at Keystone Science School was a resounding success as we once again collaborated with the Summit School District (SSD) to host ten weeks of Summit Day Camp for elementary students and eight weeks of Pathfinders Day Camp for middle schoolers. Our mission, in partnership…
2023 Summer Camp Impact Report
As autumn draws to a close in Summit County, our team finds itself in a moment of reflection upon the remarkable summer we experienced at KSS this year. With the theme “Summer of Soaring,” we are awestruck by the positive impact of our summer camp, surpassing our highest expectations, thanks to our campers, camp families,…
Our Mission & Values
What do the mission and values of KSS mean to the people who work here? Watch this short video to find out! Click here to learn more about our mission, vision and values. Donate here to help support our mission.
Leadership Framework
This is not a specific curriculum or lesson, but rather a framework with a foundation of 5 elements of leadership that can be applied to any program/age/activity. As students progress through camp, adventure, and school-based programs, they will become familiar with the 5 elements and have opportunities to grow within each. This framework is meant…
2022 H2O Outdoors Final Report
H2O Outdoors is a 3-day program teaching high school students about the many uses of water and the policy which surrounds how Colorado’s water is managed. Throughout the program students learn about careers within water management, conduct field-based research, and visit several key locations in Summit County as they learn about the various stakeholders who…
2022 Beyond the Classroom Final Report
Beyond the Classroom 2022 was a sucess! We are happy to bring back this program since it was last held in 2019 before the pandemic. We had 15 teachers attend from 8 different schools and 3 different states. Beyond the Classroom provides teachers with all the tools necessary to facilitate a complete unit on environmental issues…
2022 Girls in STEM Final Report
Keystone Science School believes in empowering girls by engaging them in hands-on, real-world activities to show STEM is relevant and fun in an ever-changing world. According to the National Education Association, “girls who learn in all-girl environments are believed to be more comfortable responding to questions and sharing their opinions in class and more likely…
2022 Year in Review
Thanks to the support of our donors and community members, Keystone Science School was able to rebuild our programs this year. In fact, donor support lifted our efforts to restart programs. We served 3,500 youth this year–a 50% increase from 2021. Next year, we are poised to run our first full calendar year of programming…
2022 Summit Day Camp Final Report
Since 2015, Keystone Science School has partnered with Summit School District (SSD) to offer 10 consecutive weeks of Summit Day Camp to its students. This enriching outdoor education program is exclusive to SSD students, serving up to 75 students per day. The program offers consistent and affordable care to working parents. A sliding fee scale…
2022 Summer Camp in Review
Summit County has settled into the winter season, and the staff find themselves reflecting on the incredible summer we had at KSS this year as we continue to rebuild and restart programming after the pandemic. The theme for camp this year was the Summer of Community, and as we look back on the impact from…
Board Member Yanitza Rivera on our JEDI Commission
Yanizta Rivera, one of our KSS Board Members and a member of our new JEDI Commission, shares her thoughts on the importance of our efforts in Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. With Spanish as her first language, she has personally experienced the difficulties of language barriers. As a board member of The Keystone Science School…
A New Chapter at KSS
Keystone Science School is an incredibly special place. Its location in Keystone, its community of people, and its mission to inspire curiosity and critical thinking through the lens of science make it so. Since 1976, the School has offered interactive, experiential educational programs. This year, as the organization re-emerged from the pandemic stressors, the School…
Mission Moment: Social Emotional Learning
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is an integral part of education and human development. It is the process through which young people and adults thrive personally and academically, develop and maintain positive relationships, become lifelong learners, and contribute to a more caring, just world. SEL is important because it advances educational equity and excellence by establishing…
Our Inclusion Policy
At Keystone Science School, we believe camp and outdoor education is for everyone! We create spaces of true belonging in which campers, students, and staff can be their authentic selves while experiencing the magic of camp and the outdoors. We strive to make everyone in our community feel comfortable, supported, and validated, regardless of their…
Our Staff – Why They’re Awesome and the Experience Needed
At the Keystone Science School, staff are certified and trained extensively in preparation for the summer months. They go through pre-hire screenings, must meet minimum job requirements, and spend two weeks in staff training before campers arrive. Job Requirements: To be eligible for a summer job at KSS, applicants must meet certain requirements. Staff Training:…
The Intentionality of KSS Activities
Keystone Science School Summer Camp programs are full of fun games and activities but every activity is full of meaning and purpose towards a larger objective of helping youth develop more independence and confidence. Some of our most “campy” traditions are viewed by campers as simply fun activities but to our staff and parents these…
2021 Summer Camp in Review
With the first dusting of snow this fall sitting atop Loveland Pass, the seasons are finally turning and the staff find themselves reflecting on the summer. The theme for camp this past year was the Summer of Connection, and based on our review and analysis, not only were connections made, but lives changed and unforgettable…
Ty Pennington Remembered
Keystone Science School’s dear friend and generous supporter, Ty Pennington, passed away in April 2014. While he was taken from us too early, his contributions and spirit will always be remembered. Ty was a kind and generous man with a firm belief in community, family, and helping others. The first day he walked onto KSS’s…
Happy Birthday to our Founder and Friend!
We are excited and honored to be celebrating the birthday of our founder and friend, Robert W. Craig, who turned 90 years old this month. Craig, who most frequently describes himself as the “ultimate accidental tourist,” served in the U.S. Navy as an officer on an attack cargo ship (AKA 80), graduated in biology and…