NORTHERN WATERS ENVIRONMENTAL SCHOOL

Northern Waters Environmental School is a Title I public charter high school that is part of the Hayward Community School District school district, located in Hayward, WI with about 39 students offering grade levels from 6th Grade to 12th Grade. A Title I school provides supplemental financial assistance to school districts for children from low-income families. Its purpose is to provide all children significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and high-quality education. With about 2 teachers, Northern Waters Environmental School has a student/teacher ratio of about 19:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

Northern Waters Environmental School (NWES), located in Hayward, Wisconsin, is a public charter school that serves as an extension of the Hayward Community School District. Dedicated to a project-based and place-based learning philosophy, the school leverages the unique natural environment of Northern Wisconsin as a primary classroom. By integrating rigorous academic standards with hands-on environmental stewardship, NWES aims to foster a deep connection between students and their local ecosystem, encouraging them to become active, informed citizens who understand the complexities of their surroundings.

The school is noted for its focus on holistic development, emphasizing critical thinking, collaborative problem-solving, and personalized learning paths. Because of its nature-centric approach, students frequently engage in field research, outdoor expeditions, and community-partnered initiatives that apply classroom theories to real-world challenges. Through this immersive curriculum, Northern Waters provides a distinct educational alternative that balances traditional academic achievement with an enduring commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

For more information, contact Northern Waters Environmental School at (715) 634-2619 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.