Kala Rush
Program Director
Friends of Katahdin Woods and Waters
Sherman,
Roles at NAAEE
Languages
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I believe that the best learning happens when we connect deeply to the places we inhabit. My journey through the Montana Conservation Corps, AmeriCorps, and years in the classroom completely reshaped my philosophy on education. I’ve seen firsthand how nature can spark curiosity and foster a profound sense of belonging. Now, my mission is to make those transformative, place-based outdoor experiences accessible to every single student.
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Kala Rush is an environmental educator, community organizer, and grassroots program builder based in Maine. She is widely recognized for her work in place-based learning and her efforts to connect rural youth with the natural landscapes of Northern Maine, particularly surrounding Katahdin Woods and Waters.
Early Life and Education
Originally from Montana, Kala developed a strong connection to nature through her early experiences and her time with the Montana Conservation Corps, which inspired a commitment to environmental stewardship. She studied Journalism, Communications, and Media Studies at the University of Montana before moving to Maine.
Career & Move to Maine
Kala first moved to Maine in 2007 as an AmeriCorps VISTA member with the United Way of Greater Portland. After finishing her studies at the University of Southern Maine, she worked as a high school teacher in Northern Maine, where she championed place-based learning that utilized the local environment as a classroom.
Grassroots & Environmental Impact
Building on her experience in rural education, Kala co-created a grassroots learning program for local youth. She later joined the Friends of Katahdin Woods and Waters as Program Director, where she leads educational and community outreach efforts surrounding the national monument.
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