What People Are Saying
“Zach has been an incredible asset to our school community. He spent his days engaging students through guided outdoor recess, nature-based games, ecology activities, and environmental science programming. His leadership in developing after-school curriculum has been transformative, blending the outdoors with youth development to spark curiosity, build confidence, and deepen students’ connection to the natural world. Over the years, Zach has built strong, positive relationships with students, staff, and families. We have complete trust in his meaningful work and his ability to inspire young learners. Simply amazing.”
Shellian Heredia, M, ED Assistant Principal, J. W. Middle School Kingston, NY
“Zach has taught our children outdoor education since 2021. At first, our goal was simple: we wanted our urban city kids to learn how to navigate and enjoy the Catskills woods during their summer holidays. But through the experiences Zach has created for them, he has given them so much more than that.
Through games in the woods, nature arts and crafts, expeditions, survival skills, and gratitude circles, Zach creates experiences that meet children exactly where they are. He is full of ideas and has a deep toolbox to draw from, always finding ways to connect at each child’s level. He is a warm-hearted, compassionate, fun, and nurturing educator; someone our kids trust and feel excited to learn from…
…Wood carving, fire making, shelter building, and hours spent playing in the forest, the kids have learned respect for nature, problem-solving skills, perseverance through trial and error, smart risk-taking, and the courage to try things that feel intimidating or outside their comfort zones.
Building shelters in the woods teaches resourcefulness and creativity. Starting a fire to stay warm or cook requires patience, problem-solving, and trying again when things don’t work the first time. Surviving in nature demands perseverance, and Zach lets the kids experience that in a way that feels empowering rather than overwhelming.
We are deeply grateful for Zach’s continued mentorship and the steady, meaningful impact he has had on our children.”
Hiroko Bell Parent of 2 participants from 2021-current
“For the past nine years, Zachary Jones has been an integral part of the J. Watson Bailey Middle School community as our Outdoor Educator. Affectionately known to students as "Maui," Zach was truly the face of the program; students flocked to him, trusted him, and thrived under his guidance. To this day, graduates who return to visit still ask about him, a true testament to the lasting impact he made. Zach has the rare combination of patience, humor, and compassion needed to work with middle school students- a group that can be both wonderfully energetic and uniquely challenging. He handled every situation with ease and empathy, always willing to take on students who struggled behaviorally, seeing these as opportunities to mentor and guide rather than obstacles. He was an absolute gem to work with and a highlight during even the longest of weeks. His positivity, dedication, and steady presence enriched not only our students' lives but also the lives of every staff member fortunate enough to work alongside him. . . He is one of those rare educators who leaves a lasting mark, one I will personally miss working with”
Debra Fitzgerald, Principal J.W. Bailey Middle School, Kingston, NY
We’ve had the pleasure of knowing Zach for several years as a phenomenal outdoor educator, but we truly came to appreciate what a compelling leader and role model he is when we worked with him to plan a wilderness birthday party for our ten-year-old son. He empowered our son to reflect on the activities he’s most passionate about in the outdoors and helped shape an experience that built community and lasting memories.
Our son regularly comes home excited, especially about building fires (he’s now very particular about the types of bark and kindling he collects) and the weaving skills Zach has taught over the years. He also loves harvesting wild onions to bring home and share with our family, which has inspired him to forage, cook, try new foods, and spend more time in nature. These aren’t just activities, but meaningful connections to the natural world.
We are thrilled that Zach is now at High Meadow School. He has a remarkable ability to connect with children across a wide range of ages and to read group dynamics in a way that strengthens relationships outdoors. The curriculum he has built across the seasons is thoughtful, well-crafted, and beautifully executed.
We hope Zach will remain a part of our son’s life for years to come. His balance of kindness, passion, and connection makes him truly extraordinary
Leslie Washinton: Mother of a participant
High Meadow School After-school program
Fox Fire Birthday Party
Contact us
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!