Northern Discovery Academy
Northern Discovery Academy
  • Home
  • Who Are We?
    • Who Are We?
    • Philosophy & Model
  • Enrollment
    • Forest School (JrK-1st)
    • Lower School (K-3rd)
    • Lower School (4th-6th)
    • Upper School (7th-12)
    • Homeschool & Hybrid
    • Discovery Thursday Jr/Sr
    • Discovery Thursday Gr 1-6
  • Special Programs
    • Outdoor Ed. Leadership
  • Year 2026-2027
    • School Calendar 26-27
    • Tuition
    • Student Supply List
  • More
    • Home
    • Who Are We?
      • Who Are We?
      • Philosophy & Model
    • Enrollment
      • Forest School (JrK-1st)
      • Lower School (K-3rd)
      • Lower School (4th-6th)
      • Upper School (7th-12)
      • Homeschool & Hybrid
      • Discovery Thursday Jr/Sr
      • Discovery Thursday Gr 1-6
    • Special Programs
      • Outdoor Ed. Leadership
    • Year 2026-2027
      • School Calendar 26-27
      • Tuition
      • Student Supply List
  • Sign In

  • My Account
  • Signed in as:

  • filler@godaddy.com


  • My Account
  • Sign out

Signed in as:

filler@godaddy.com

  • Home
  • Who Are We?
    • Who Are We?
    • Philosophy & Model
  • Enrollment
    • Forest School (JrK-1st)
    • Lower School (K-3rd)
    • Lower School (4th-6th)
    • Upper School (7th-12)
    • Homeschool & Hybrid
    • Discovery Thursday Jr/Sr
    • Discovery Thursday Gr 1-6
  • Special Programs
    • Outdoor Ed. Leadership
  • Year 2026-2027
    • School Calendar 26-27
    • Tuition
    • Student Supply List

Account

  • My Account
  • Sign out

  • Sign In
  • My Account

outdoor Leadership & Environmental Education

Apply Now

about the "O.L.E.E." program

2026-2027 Outdoor Leadership & Environmental Education

This fall Northern Discovery Academy is introducing our OLEE which is a one-year course, that meets on Thursdays from 11:30 to 3:00.


This course will provide students with real outdoor experiences such as kayaking, canoeing, hiking, fishing and conservation practices. These adventures become the exciting context for leadership, problem-solving,  and collaboration skills. Besides that students will engage with community leaders, learn from industry experts, and produce documentation on various projects throughout the year.


This program will be a ton of FUN and cultivate strong career and community skills for your student.


Who is this for: This adventuring track is for fully enrolled 7th-12th grade NDA students as well as Homeschool students attending in a hybrid format. 


When does it meet: The program runs from September to May, on Thursdays during the elective portion of the regular school day, from 10:45-3:00.


What does it involve: During the best weather of the year we will focus on outdoor recreation, team challenges, and an emphasis on entrepreneurial skills and leadership. During the coldest times of the year we will focus on conservation, research, and classroom education while engaging in the best winter activities in the area. 


What does it cost: The tuition cost for fully enrolled students is an additional $899.  For homeschool families the cost will be $1199. Some consideration will be given to part-time enrollment. There will be an outdoor fee for equipment rental which has yet to be determined. We are still working on partnerships and purchasing our own equipment which should keep fees minimal.


Interested? Email our Director of Development at donb@northerndiscoveryacademy.com


This program launches in 2026-2027 school year. 

Goals of the OLEE Program

Leadership & Life Skills

Entrepreneurial & Local Investment

Entrepreneurial & Local Investment

The OLEE program is designed to grow important leadership skills, important career-ready skills, with a goal toward personal growth. This all happens dynamically in a variety of different exercises, challenges, and experiences.


  • Initiative
  • Teamwork
  • Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
  • Communication Skills
  • Collaboration
  • Resilience & Grit



Entrepreneurial & Local Investment

Entrepreneurial & Local Investment

Entrepreneurial & Local Investment

The OLEE program is designed to introduce and inspire students toward local investment in their next steps. We do this by introducing them to the natural resources, industries, and economic opportunities in Newaygo County and beyond. Students will engage local leaders, interview business owners, and learn about future opportunities. 


  • Outdoor Recreation
  • Entrepreneurial Investment
  • Economic Opportunities
  • Conservations' Role in the Economy

Naturalist Experiences

Entrepreneurial & Local Investment

Naturalist Experiences

The OLEE program will explore natural spaces as the students grow, learn, and are challenged. This offers regular and constant engagement with the natural sciences, naturalistic skills, and outdoor recreation education. 

Copyright © 2026 Northern Discovery Academy - All Rights Reserved.

Powered by