The Summit includes dynamic sessions, field experiences, networking opportunities, and more, all combining to offer you a rich professional development experience. Space is limited in the Summit's Field Workshops — we encourage you to register today so that you have your first pick of programs. The registration deadline is January 8.
Before you register, be prepared to select your Field Workshop preferences and explore membership or scholarship options if needed.
Registration will open later this week.
Registration Fee
The Outdoor School Summit registration fee is $495. Please note that the registration fee does not include lodging; learn about lodging options here.
What’s included
Summit registration includes:
- Access to engaging discussion-based sessions on Saturday, facilitated by leaders in the field
- Participation in Open Space, where you can create and lead your own session
- Two immersive Field Workshops from a selection of seven diverse options
- Three networking events, plus additional activities to build connection and community
- Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners from Friday evening through Tuesday morning
See the Summit schedule for details of each day.
Membership
The Summit is for current ANCA Members or employees of Organization Members. We do not want the cost of a membership to be a barrier to attending, and will offer two discounted membership rates for non-members to join. On the registration form, non-members may choose from the following discounted membership rates:
- Associate Membership for $55 (a $20 discount)
- Professional Membership for $80 (a $35 discount)
Learn more about membership here. Please note that the discounted rates are for non-members or expired members (6+ months), and are not available for membership renewals.
Scholarships
We are offering a limited number of scholarships for individuals to participate in the Outdoor School Summit.
Scholarship Details
Each scholarship is $600 per person. Please limit one applicant per organization.
Scholarships are competitive. Awards will be based on the applicant’s demonstrated financial need and the potential impact that attending the Summit will have on their professional role and organization. We prioritize applicants from organizations with small budgets and first-time Summit attendees.
The deadline for scholarships is October 29, 2026. Award decisions will be announced by November 5.
How to Apply
The application below will ask you to upload one PDF document containing your answers to the following narrative questions. Please complete your narrative responses before starting the online application.
Narrative Questions
Your PDF should address the following five questions:
- Please briefly describe your organization and facilities. Help us understand the size, scope, setting, and nature of your outdoor school or program.
- Explain your need and interest in attending the Outdoor School Summit. What do you hope to learn, explore, or gain from participating? How would attending the Summit support your professional growth or benefit your organization?
- Explain your need for financial assistance. Please describe the financial circumstances or barriers that make it difficult for you or your organization to attend without scholarship support.
- Tell us a little about yourself. Share anything about your background, experience, role, or perspective that would help the selection committee get to know you and understand what you would bring to and take away from the Summit.
- How did you hear about the ANCA Outdoor School Summit?
About Your Responses
Your narrative responses are an important part of the scholarship selection process. The selection committee will use your answers to better understand your organization, your circumstances, your professional role, and the potential value of attending the Outdoor School Summit.
You do not need to make your responses overly formal or lengthy. We are most interested in learning about you, your organization, your needs, and why this opportunity matters to you.
Once you have completed your five narrative responses, combine them into one PDF document and have it ready to upload.
Tips for a Strong Application
Consider the following when writing your narrative responses:
- Be specific. Give enough detail for us to understand your circumstances and your program.
- Explain the impact. Show how the experience would benefit you, your organization, or the people you serve.
- Be honest about your need. Clearly explain the financial barriers that make scholarship assistance important to you.
- Take your time. These responses are a significant part of the selection process. Thoughtful, substantive answers will help the committee make informed decisions.