About
Creative Wondering was created in 2024 by Catherine Ullery, and is based in the Snoqualmie Valley in Duvall, Washington. My mission is to expand the reach of environmental education through effective facilitation, program development, and the creation of educational materials.
I acknowledge that we are on the Indigenous Land of Coast Salish peoples who have reserved treaty rights to this land, specifically the Snoqualmie Indian tribe (sdukÊ·albixÊ·). I thank these caretakers of this land who have lived and continue to live here since time immemorial.
Learn about the Snoqualmie Tribe Ancestral Land Movement
Meet Catherine
As a young student growing up in Washington I felt most engaged in learning when I was outdoors. This experience stuck with me, and inspired me to pursue a B.A. from Whitworth University in English and a minor in Environmental Studies.
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My degree led me to the National Park Service, where I specialized in environmental education and youth engagement. Most recently I returned to my roots here in Washington as Education Specialist at Oxbow Farm and Conservation Center.
I'm passionate about creating inclusive spaces where people can connect with nature through curiosity, wonder, and fun. I look forward to continuing this work through contract and freelance opportunities!
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Skills & Experience:​
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Designing educational programs and assessments for students from preschool through 12th grade
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Facilitating training sessions for teachers, informal educators, and the general public
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Translating complex scientific concepts and data into engaging, audience-specific content
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Creating a range of educational materials including visual aids, interpretive signage, illustrations, books, worksheets, and videos
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Developing curriculum specifically for preschool settings
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Ensuring all materials adhere to digital accessibility standards
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Certified in Universal Design for Learning with a strong commitment to inclusive education
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Familiar with homeschooling, alternative education options, public schools, and after-school programs
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Experienced artist skilled in leading art classes for youth and adults
My Approach
Inquiry Based & Student Led
I believe that one of the best ways to engage students is to follow their natural curiosity and sense of wonder. To do this I often start with a question or scenario and let their exploration guide the experience. This approach creates space for students to have ownership of their learning experience, and build on their prior knowledge and experiences to explore new ideas. Click here to learn more about inquiry-based learning.​
Experiential
This hands-on approach to learning creates opportunities for students to take the lead and work through a challenge or experience. Educators support students through the process, and set students up for thoughtful observations and reflection to help them apply what they've learned to real life scenarios. Click here to learn more about experiential learning.
Place Based
Connecting with the local ecosystem, history, and community is powerful. My goal is for every lesson to be based on local phenomena, and create opportunities for students to build meaningful connections with their surroundings. Click here to learn more about place-based learning.
Standards Alligned
I can incorporate any standards requested for Preschool-12th grade into our lessons. This includes Next Generation Science Standards, Common Core, and Early Learning & Development Guidelines. Just let me know what you'd like to focus on! Check out Washington State's work to integrate standards with environmental and sustainability education.
Customized to your needs
Environmental education has so many applications and benefits, I hope to work with you to come up with a program or materials that work with your goals, timing, budget, group, and space. Not sure what that would look like? Give me a call, I'd love to brainstorm together!
