What is EcoVillage?
EcoVillage is an immersive, student-led program where imagination takes root and learning grows. Designed for students in grades 3-5, this outdoor experience transforms young learners into entrepreneurs, lawmakers, community leaders, and environmental stewards. Through a series of engaging missions, students build their own village in the woods, decide how their community will operate, and learn through hands-on activities that spark critical thinking, collaboration, and leadership.
Now Booking 2025-2026 Field Trips
Three Hands-on Missions
Critical Thinking
Community Rooted in Imagination
Students journey into EcoVillage to explore the goods and services their community offers. They’ll scout the land on a nature scavenger hunt, discover hidden resources, and meet a local community member. As inventors, leaders, and dreamers, it’s time to shape the town’s identity and start building.
Collaboration
Grow Your Budding Community
EcoVillage has taken root, and now it’s time for students to help it thrive. In this mission, students will bring their town to life by creating currency, voting on laws, and choosing the perfect name. As they prepare for visitors, students will design a town map, develop marketing for their businesses, and build a strong sense of community with their fellow citizens.
Leadership
Nurture Your Blossoming Community
EcoVillage is ready to open its doors, and its citizens will face new challenges. In this final mission, students prepare for a grand opening to welcome visitors and showcase their work. They’ll reflect on the challenges they faced, learn from real students and fictional characters, celebrate their success, and prepare to return the town to nature.
Are You a Local Educator?
If you are located near Cincinnati, OH; Oldenburg, IN; or Lewis Township, OH, your students can experience EcoVillage in person at one of our Greenacres campuses. Our educators guide students through the forest habitat as they create a community from scratch. This 3-4 hour program encourages playful learning, teamwork, and outdoor discovery. Field trip scheduling is available now—don’t miss this opportunity to immerse your class in nature-based learning.
Not Local? You Can Still Join the Journey
No matter where you teach, you can bring the EcoVillage experience to your classroom through the JASON Learning platform. This virtual version of the program includes educator guides, interdisciplinary content, videos, and interactive activities. Students still take the lead in creating their own communities, engaging in decision-making, and exploring real-world concepts like goods and services, laws, and environmental stewardship—in an outdoor space near you.
Educators receive everything they need to facilitate the experience, including step-by-step guides, flexible classroom materials, and built-in support to help students succeed.
Want to Learn More About the Partnership?
Greenacres Foundation, JASON Learning, and Indian Hill Expemted Village School District have teamed up to expand the reach of EcoVillage to students nationwide. Together, we’re combining Greenacres’ immersive, place-based programming with JASON’s innovative digital platform to create meaningful learning experiences for classrooms everywhere. Learn more in our press release.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is EcoVillage designed for?
Students in grades 3-5, though the concepts can be adapted for other ages.
How long is the in-person program?
The program lasts 3-4 hours and takes place outdoors in a forest habitat.
What standards does the program align with?
EcoVillage supports Ohio Science, Social Studies, and NGSS standards.
Can I access the program virtually?
Yes. EcoVillage is available at no cost through the JASON Learning platform for educators outside the Greenacres service region.
Do students work individually or in groups?
Students work collaboratively to make decisions, build their village, and solve problems together.
What materials are included?
Educator prep guides, videos, interdisciplinary resources, and vocabulary support are all provided.
Is this a one-time experience or a series?
EcoVillage includes three missions that build upon each other, designed to be completed in sequence.
How do I schedule a visit or access the virtual version?
Schedule a field trip for your class at Greenacres or access the virtual experience on JASON Learning.
Contact Us
Field Trip Coordinator
Katie Brown