PROJECTS — EDUCATION

Education

Through our growing education program, we collaborate with local schools, cultural institutions, and community groups to provide hands-on learning experiences that deepen understanding of the Esselen people’s past and present — from archaeological field schools to immersive cultural workshops.

Programs

What we offer.

A growing portfolio of programs from the Educational Committee and Cultural Resources Department.

Ages 8–18
Now open

Youth Land Camps

Multi-day camps on the reclaimed lands — basketry, gathering, fire, language, and play. Held three times a year.

18+
Now open

Ecological Apprenticeships

Year-long mentored placements with the Cultural Resources field team. Open to Esselen members.

All ages

Esselen Language Circle

Member-led monthly sessions. A quarterly public-facing teaching session is open to neighbors.

Students

Esselen Youth Scholarship Fund

Annual scholarships for Esselen members at any level of study. Applications open Feb 1 – Apr 15.

Educators
Now open

Classroom Visits

School and university visits in partnership with regional educators. Free for K–12; modest fee for higher-ed.

Public

Quarterly Lecture Series

A speaker series on Esselen history, archaeology, and land stewardship. Free and open.

We don’t only teach our young people about being Esselen. We teach them to be Esselen — on land, with elders, with their hands in the soil.
Educational Committee