SKY Program

SKY (Service Knowledge Youth) was founded as a collaboration between school district and private partners to provide high school students with an outdoor-based work experience blended with academic instruction. SKY teaches job skills, teamwork and stewardship of public lands while providing an opportunity to earn academic credit through a combination of classroom activities, conservation projects and outdoor experiences.

By working on a variety of outdoor projects, SKY participants take responsibility and gain leadership skills by applying knowledge and teamwork toward solving real-life problems. Through participating in several day-long outdoor education experiences and extended overnight camping excursions, SKY participants achieve personal growth, positive social experiences, teamwork, goal setting and the rewards of personal and group accomplishment.

Where many of today's youth are disengaged from their environment, SKY seeks to inspire them with it. Where many feel underused and neglected, SKY seeks to challenge them by raising their expectations. Where many are lonely or caught up in negative social situations, SKY seeks to unite them together in a positive outdoor work environment. Where many severely limit their futures by making poor decisions, SKY seeks to nurture personal integrity and positive behavior by helping them set and accomplish personal and career goals.

Click here for image galleries, and information on current SKY programs active throughout the PNTA

SKY operates two main programs: 1) SKY Summer Trail Program and 2) SKY Native Plant Nursery.

SUMMER TRAIL PROGRAM
offers an 8-week opportunity for at-risk high school students to learn job skills, gain high school credit and earn a wage by working on trail maintenance and construction projects along the Pacific Northwest Trail. SKY summer trail crews learn about careers, job readiness, study skills, project planning, team building, problem solving and public speaking by participating in several day-long outdoor education activities and extended overnight excursions in National Parks and National Forests.

NATIVE PLANT NURSERY PROGRAM
offers 12-week opportunities for at-risk high school students to learn job skills, gain high school credit and earn a wage by working at the SKY Native Plant Nursery in Skagit County, WA. SKY Native Plant Nursery crews learn about careers, job readiness, study skills, project planning, team building, problem solving and public speaking by participating in several day-long outdoor education activities and extended overnight excursions in National Parks and National Forests.

For more Information on SKY contact the Pacific Northwest Trail Association

Phone: (360) 854-9415.