GOODWILLIE ENVIRONMENTAL SCHOOL

Goodwillie Environmental School is a public middle school that is part of the Forest Hills Public Schools school district, located in ADA, MI with about 101 students offering grade levels from 5th Grade to 6th Grade. With about 4 teachers, Goodwillie Environmental School has a student/teacher ratio of about 25:1. 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.

Goodwillie Environmental School, located in Ada, Michigan, is a unique, nature-integrated educational facility that serves as an extension of the Forest Hills Public Schools district. Designed primarily for fifth-grade students, the school offers a specialized curriculum that blends traditional academic standards with immersive environmental education. By utilizing the surrounding woods, wetlands, and outdoor learning spaces, the school encourages students to develop a deep appreciation for ecology and sustainability while engaging in hands-on, inquiry-based learning that connects classroom concepts to the natural world.

The program at Goodwillie is characterized by its focus on stewardship, personal responsibility, and community building. Students spend significant time outdoors, participating in field studies, hiking, and conservation-related activities that foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By stepping away from the conventional classroom setting, the school provides an experiential learning environment where students can explore environmental science firsthand, ultimately aiming to cultivate environmentally conscious citizens who understand the complexities of the local and global ecosystems.

For more information, contact Goodwillie Environmental School at (616) 493-8920 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.