Fern & Feather Preschool continues to provide a safe, supportive, natural learning environment that nurtures children’s innate curiosity, the need to explore, and the joy of discovery. Fern & Feather teachers support children to challenge their physical abilities, express themselves, build healthy bodies, discover, practice, and develop a relationship with the natural world. While nature and outdoor exploration comprises most of our curriculum, we also introduce students to early learning and pre-academic skills. We are proud of our new teaching team, as of September 2023, who work hard to incorporate music, art, science, math, literacy, engineering, and social emotional well-being into our daily learning experiences. Fern & Feather students are not only learning to be environmental stewards, but they learning to be creative, cooperative, kind, collaborative, problem solvers. Fern and Feather Day Camp piloted its first year using a sliding scale fee system for all camp registrations. It was a huge success, with an increase in the number of families supported and financial assistance provided. Tiered tuition options, determined by Dukes County household incomes, were offered to families. A lower tier option was provided to local island families due to the high cost of living on the island. Island families were also allowed to enroll their children a week ahead of public registration. The sliding scale model was well received by all registrants and deeply appreciated by those who needed it most. Mass Audubon was able to support camp families to the tune of $45,000 which exceeded the previous year’s total financial assistance by $30,000!