Neal Turnquist

Adventure at RGS is focused on connecting students to nature, their community, and themselves. Students grow in their sense of place through a variety of activities such as free-play, fort-building, sensory awareness games, team-building, and hikes. This sense of place helps students gain confidence, understand ecological connections, and has been shown to increase the likelihood that they will grow into engaged citizens.

Our youngest students begin with simple exploration of the campus and nearby areas, while older students take on service learning projects, team-building activities, longer hikes, and overnight trips. Along the way, we take time to build community, learn how to overcome challenges, and connect with nature.

Neal joined RGS in 2007. Originally from New Hampshire, he graduated from St. John’s College in 2004. Like anyone graduating with a BA in Liberal Arts, Neal spent the next year listlessly attempting to re-enter society. Fortunately, he found working with children the perfect antidote to existential angst. He is passionate about connecting children to the outdoors and developing their sense of place. Neal obtained his a Master’s in Outdoor Education Leadership from Prescott College in 2022. When he isn't working, Neal enjoys reading, cooking, hiking, playing disc golf, and spending time with his wife and two children.

neal_turnquist@riograndeschool.org