Mission Moment: Gunsaulus Scholastic Academy
Earlier this season, we welcomed a group of adventurous students from Gunsaulus Scholastic Academy—all the way from Chicago! These middle schoolers swapped city streets for snowy trails as they dove into a four-day outdoor education experience here at Keystone Science School.
Mission Moment – Girls in STEM: Medical Explorers 2025
What do you get when you combine curious minds, mock surgeries, high-tech robots, and a microscope or two? A weekend full of discovery, excitement, and hands-on science! Girls in STEM: Medical Explorers was a total hit, bringing together 4th–12th grade girls and non-binary participants for an unforgettable deep dive into the world of medicine.
Staff’s Favorite Science Experiment: Water Testing
At Keystone Science School, we love asking our staff fun questions—especially ones that bring back memories of cool science experiments with campers.
Staff’s Favorite Summer Camp Memory: Fish Hatchery
Every summer, we ask our staff to reflect on their favorite memory from the season—and their answers never disappoint. In our new video series, you’ll get to hear these moments straight from the source! First up is Andrew.
Mission Moment: West Grand Middle School
We recently had the pleasure of welcoming students and teachers from West Grand Middle School to Keystone Science School for one of our unforgettable Outdoor Education Field Trips! What made this trip truly special was hearing from the students and teachers themselves.
Hear About Our Staff’s Favorite Summer Camp Activities!
At Keystone Science School, our staff are the heart and soul of the camp experience, and they love sharing their favorite moments with campers. From Gaga Ball to arts and crafts, there’s a wide range of activities to get excited about. But one of their absolute favorites? Rock climbing!
Summer Staff’s Favorite Things About Working at KSS!
We asked our summer staff, “What’s your favorite thing about working at KSS?” Their answers came straight from the heart—unforgettable adventures, amazing campers, and a community that feels like family.
Mission Moment – Girls in STEM: Snow Science 2025
Watch the recap of our Girls in STEM Snow Science program! Young scientists explored snow through hands-on experiments, avalanche safety, and field research. More than science, it was about confidence, teamwork, and adventure. See the highlights in our Mission Moment Video!
Get to know our new Executive Director: Eric Rightor
In this short video, meet Eric as he shares his background, experience, and passions beyond work. From his summer camp history to his favorite outdoor activities, this is a great way to learn more about the person leading KSS.
Mission Moment: H2O Outdoors 2024
Last October, our H2O Outdoors program welcomed a small but passionate group of six high school students to explore the world of water management in Summit County, Colorado
Year in Review 2024
Check out Keystone Science School’s 2024 Year in Review video!
Mission Moment: Omar D Blair Charter School
In our latest Mission Moment video, students and teachers from Omar D. Blair Charter School share their personal stories about the impact of these hands-on, nature-based learning opportunities. As you hear their reflections in the video, it’s clear that these field trips are not just educational—they’re transformative.
Mission Moment – Girls in STEM: Water Wonders 2024
Watch the recap of our recent Girls in STEM Water Wonders program and hear from participating students and mentors!
Mission Moment: Discovery Camp 2024
Have you ever wondered what makes Discovery Overnight Camp so special? We captured some of those magical moments in our latest mission moment video, and it’s all about celebrating the joy, curiosity, and adventure that our campers experience every year.
Celebrating Creativity at Girls in STEM: Film Fest!
We invite you to watch these fantastic short films and support our young filmmakers! You can view the films here. Each film is a testament to the creativity, teamwork, and dedication that these young girls brought to the project.
Mission Moment – Girls in STEM: Film Fest 2024
Join us as we revisit the captivating moments from our Girls in STEM Film Fest program and listen to the reflections of our participants!
What to Expect: Water Wonders 2024
Get ready to make a splash at our next Girls in STEM adventure—Water Wonders! This hands-on program will immerse participants in the fascinating world of water science, with a focus on environmental impacts and aquatic ecosystems.
Mission Moment: Day Camp 2024
As the summer draws to a close, we can’t help but reflect on another incredible season at Day Camp. This year was filled with laughter, learning, and countless memories that will last a lifetime. But don’t just take our word for it—our campers and their families have a lot to say about what makes Day…
Mission Moment: SSD Mountain Ecology
Summit County students from local schools once again had the incredible opportunity to immerse themselves in nature through our Mountain Ecology program at Keystone Science School this winter and spring. Thanks to the unwavering support of Vail EpicPromise, this initiative has continued to thrive, enriching the educational experiences of young learners across the county. Tailored…
Mission Moment: Girls in STEM Medical Explorers 2024
Join us as we revisit the captivating moments from our Girls in Medical Explorers program and listen to the reflections of our participants!
Mission Moment: Alexander Dawson School
Join us for a heartwarming mission moment as we delve into the unforgettable experiences of Alexander Dawson School during their Outdoor Education Field Trip at Keystone Science School. From exhilarating adventures in nature to hands-on scientific exploration, Alexander Dawson’s trip to Keystone Science School provided a platform for growth, discovery, and connection. In this captivating…
Mission Moment: Riverview School
In this Mission Moment video, discover why Riverview School recommends our Outdoor Education program at KSS. Hear firsthand from students and teachers as they share their unforgettable experiences, newfound skills, and deep appreciation for the natural world. Get your class outside in the Rockies this school year! We have limited dates available so don’t wait…
Mission Moment: Collegiate Academy
Step into the shoes of a teacher witnessing the profound impact of outdoor education on their students during an unforgettable trip to Keystone Science School. In this video, hear a teacher’s heartfelt reflections on the transformative experiences shared by their students. Get your class outside in the Rockies this school year! We have limited dates…
Mission Moment: West Grand Middle School
Join West Grand Middle School students as they share their experiences from the Outdoor Education trip at Keystone Science School. Hear firsthand how this journey impacted them, fostering teamwork, resilience, and a deeper connection to nature. Get your class outside in the Rockies this school year! We have limited dates available so don’t wait to…
Mission Moment: Crest Academy
Join us for a heartwarming mission moment as we delve into the unforgettable experiences of Crest Academy during their Outdoor Education Field Trip at Keystone Science School. From exhilarating adventures in nature to hands-on scientific exploration, Crest Academy’s trip to Keystone Science School provided a platform for growth, discovery, and connection. In this captivating video,…
Mission Moment: Girls in STEM Snow Science 2024
Join us as we revisit the captivating moments from our Girls in STEM Snow & Avalanche Science program and listen to the reflections of our participants!
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!
Mission Moment: Edith Teter
Exploring Nature, Inspiring Minds! Join us on a journey as Edith Teter Elementary share the magic of their Outdoor Education Field Trip. Hear firsthand about the unforgettable moments and discoveries that make learning come alive!
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…
Mission Moment: H2O Outdoors 2023
High Schooler’s in our H2O Outdoors program had a lot of fun the first week of November! If you don’t believe us, listen to what they have to say about the program in this short video. H2O Outdoors is a 3-day program teaching high school students about the many uses of water and the policy…
Mission Moment: Mackintosh Academy Boulder
Mackintosh Academy attended our Outdoor Education program at KSS last week. Hear what some of the students had to say about the program in this mission moment video! Get your class outside in the Rockies this school year! We have limited dates available so don’t wait to get on the KSS calendar. Call (970) 468-2098…
Mission Moment: Evergreen Country Day School
Don’t miss this heartfelt testimony that highlights the magic of learning beyond the classroom. Discover the impact of Evergreen Country Day School’s outdoor education program at KSS through the eyes of one of their teachers. In this Mission Moment video, gain insights into the transformative experiences and valuable lessons students are embracing in the great…
Mission Moment: Girls in STEM Film Fest 2023
Empowering young minds through STEM: Relive the highlights of our Girls in STEM Film Fest program and hear what participants had to say! Girls in STEM: Film Fest is a short 3 day 2 night program, in partnership with Breck Film Fest, where participating girls will learn about careers within the film industry as they…
Mission Moment: What Kids Gain From Camp
Hear what some of our Day Camp parents and campers had to say about what they learn at camp! Donate here to help support our mission.
Mission Moment: Day Camp Begins!
Hear what some of our Day Camp parents had to say after the first session of this summer! Donate here to help support our mission.
Mission Moment: Silverthorne Elementary Overnight
“It’s so crucial today for people to get outdoors, experience the world, experience the science of nature and leave their cell phones behind. Keystone Science School broadens the eyes, the mind and the soul of these young students to experience more than they ever knew was possible.” – Mark, Community Volunteer & Adjunct Instructor Silverthorne…
Mission Moment: 3rd Grade Mountain Ecology
Do to the generous support of Vail EpicPromise, the students of Summit County Schools were able to attend our 3rd Grade Mountain Ecology program at Keystone Science School throughout this winter and spring. This program is designed to supplement the elementary school curriculum by taking students into their backyards to learn about our unique forest…
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.
2023 Scholarship Report – Round 2
Summer is quickly approaching and we’ve wrapped up the second round of scholarships for this year. Keystone Science School is proud to continue our tradition of giving campers a chance to come to camp through our scholarship program. Thanks to our Scholarship Committee comprised of volunteers, KSS has distributed over $51,000 in scholarship funding so…
Outdoor Education Highlight: Watersheds & Water Management Curriculum
A few weeks ago, Katie – a science teacher from West Grand Middle school – brought her class up to KSS for an Outdoor Education field trip. She chose Watersheds & Water Management as their curriculum, and the class learned first-hand about water cycles, natural and renewable resources and conservation that paired with the in-class…
Girls in STEM: Snow & Avalanche Science Student Testimonial
Girls in STEM: Snow & Avalanche Science was a success! Hear from one of our students about their thoughts on their experience in this video. Keystone Science School’s Girls in STEM: Snow and Avalanche Science focuses on addressing challenges experienced by women interested in pursuing STEM-specific education and careers. Participatibng girls learned about snow science…
Mission Moment: Gunsaulus Scholastic Academy
Last week, Gunsaulus Scholastic Academy traveled all the way from Chicago to attend an Outdoor Education program at KSS. During the week, they learned about snow & avalanche science and were able to experience a lot of things that they had never done before. Thank you, Gunsaulus Scholastic Academy, for a fantastic week! We hope…
Mission Moment: West Grand Middle School
West Grand Middle School attended an Outdoor Education Program at KSS a few weeks ago. This trip helped make the outdoors more accesible to some students who lacked this access beforehand. During their time here they learned about Watersheds & Water Management, participated in a town hall activity, and learned to cross-country ski! We are…
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…
Mission Moment: Pushing Campers Outside of their Comfort Zones
Camp is a place of fun, belonging, and personal growth. Our programmatic goals are woven into the concept of challenging our campers to try new things to push them outside their ‘comfort zone’. This practice allows them to grow in different aspects of their own lives. We aim to foster specific talents like developing independence,…
Mission Moment: What KSS Means to Me – Aniston Zabawa
In April, Ian McCluskie, Program Manager, looked at his calendar for the week and saw his days packed with back-to-back interviews. It was time to meet, interview, and get to know our Summer Camp team and he was leading the charge. There are many details to coordinate to ensure that potential Camp Counselors are qualified to…
Mission Moment: What’s it Like Seeing Snow for the First Time?
Snow is spectacular. That’s one thing most folks seem able to agree on. But seeing it for the first time ever, that’s beyond special. At Keystone Science School, we are beyond humbled to introduce at least a handful of students from around the state and country to snow for the first time each school year.…
Witnessing the Impact of KSS From All Sides
My experience at KSS began in 5th grade when I came with my Breckenridge Elementary class for a three-day snow science program. I have very fond memories of the trip from sleeping in the Bighorn dorm, to cross country skiing across a very large field (though it doesn’t look so large anymore), and digging snow…
Community Connections that Change Lives
This week marks the close of KSS School Programs for the 2013-2014 school year. It’s been a great one and we look forward to many more. For years Keystone Science School has enjoyed a productive and mutually enriching relationship with Summit County School District through KSS’s unique School Programs. These local, grant-funded programs bring supplemental and…
What a Difference a Dollar Makes
We work hard to create memorable experiences for our students. It is a collaborative effort from not only our staff but also our funders. The letter below is a passionate declaration from classroom teacher Jaime Baker of Welby Montessori, to a funder who provided a Schoolership that allowed her students to experience a KSS School Program. I…
Snow Day
It was a Thursday and it was a whiteout – one of the first major snowfalls of the season. Big, fat flakes fell heavy and thick and I thought for sure the School Programs instructors would cancel the hike planned for the day. Silly me. We layered up, packed our lunches, filled our water bottles…