Mission

The core mission of Cathleen Stone Island Outward Bound School (formerly Thompson Island Outward Bound Education Center) is to build stronger, more equitable school communities by partnering with public schools to deliver free experiential learning programs to students that will boost academic success and foster personal growth. We are a proud member of the network of nine Outward Bound schools in the U.S. with a shared mission to change lives through challenge and discovery. Our organization has a 200-year legacy of serving children in Boston, a 49-year partnership with Boston Public Schools (BPS), and a 36-year affiliation with Outward Bound USA . Our evidence-based programs blend science, social-emotional, and challenge-based learning, giving students a unique opportunity to build life skills alongside academic development. These programs take place on our 204-acre Island classroom in the heart of the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park. The Island encompasses salt marshes, beaches, tide pools, woodlands, and meadows, and its natural resources are enhanced by a historic campus with dormitories, classrooms, science labs, challenge courses, and two 62-foot climbing towers. Funded by a combination of philanthropy and our fee-for-service businesses, our programs are offered at no cost to students and their families.