Two of our cornerstone school-year programs have launched for fall—Weekend Apprenticeships and Weekday Homeschool—with something new and exciting added: Fellowships.
- Portland Apprenticeships or Homeschoool
- Bay Area Apprenticeships or Homeschoool
- Seattle – Kirkland Apprenticeships or Homeschoool
Why Fellowships?
Because connection matters. We’re seeing it more every year: more kids report struggling to make lasting friendships. Research shows that friendships are vital to emotional well-being and lifelong resilience. Yet screens and digital spaces are replacing in-person community, leaving many kids (and adults) feeling isolated.
At Trackers, we are holding the line: no screens outdoors. Just real life. Here, kids can connect deeply—with nature, with mentors, and with friends. Now we are taking that connection a step further with our Fellowships.
What Are Fellowships?
Fellowships are about building community. They’re about being seen, known, and welcomed back by the same group year after year. Fellowships return each season, helping kids feel recognized and welcomed from Day One—whether they’re in Weekend Apprenticeships or Homeschool. This past winter, our entire team—educators, mentors, directors—gathered for several days to ask:
- How do we help every child feel like they belong?
- How do we help them build friendships that last a lifetime?
- How can building an ongoing community serve both returning and new campers?
The result: intentional teams that combine veterans and newcomers, trust-building by skill-building, and shared lore (like team names and flags) that bond each Fellowship. From first-year kids to Senior Trackers, Fellowships help build lasting community.
Already in Homeschool or Apprenticeship?
You can rejoin your Fellowship from last year—grow friendships, deepen skills, and embrace new adventures. Check your re-registration email for your team name (Fox, Osprey, Kestrel…) or contact our Family Success Team so they can look it up for you.
Choosing a New Group?
Every new Fellowship is intentionally crafted to feel like an old campfire circle. Our mentors are trained to weave new kids into the group with care and intention. Even if it’s your first day, you’re already part of the Fellowship story.
Why It Matters
This isn’t just about programs. Fellowships are about belonging and lasting friendships. Fellowships are how we help kids grow up with a sense of place, purpose, and connection—to each other and to the wild world. We hope you’ll join us!
See you in the forest,
Molly Deis
Trackers Earth
Founder & Mom