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Hessel School House

Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center

In 2016, the historic Hessel School House opened as a nonprofit venue to enrich the community through educational presentations, programs, cultural events, art exhibits, writers workshops, and more.

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Inspiring new and established writers
From half-day classes to 5-day intensive workshops for new and established authors, we have something for everyone.
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Let your creative light shine
Learn a new craft or refine your skills. We offer classes for all ages in a wide variety of mediums.
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2025 Aldo Leopold Festival
A week long celebration of one of America’s most influential naturalists.
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Events & Classes

Lectures, workshops, art classes and more!
Learn a new skill or expand your knowledge.
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Writers Workshop

Workshops for new and established authors.
Half-day to multi-day intensive classes offered.
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Storybook Trail

Adventure at every turn.
A delight for all ages.
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Aldo Leopold Festival

A celebration of all things nature.
Held annually the first week of June.
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Arts & Nature

Programs that stimulate your mind and soul.
Programs for all ages.
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Chalk Talk

An annual newsletter featuring updates, history, events, and more.
Read our current and past editions online.
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The Guide

The Guide is your resource for summer classes and activities in the Les Cheneaux Area.

Produced each spring by the Hessel School House, The Guide features the summer events and activities of a number of local organizations including the Chamber of Commerce, Lions Club, Les Cheneaux Watershed Council, Les Cheneaux Islands Association, Les Cheneaux Arts Council, Les Cheneaux Community Library, Les Cheneaux Historical Association. 

Printed copies will be available at Hessel School House and local businesses by the end of May. Feel free to download a copy or view it online until the printed copies arrive!

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Don’t take our word for it… See what everyone’s saying about Hessel School House

“I love the classes and have benefited greatly from them as a local artist. There is always something new and fun to try… Making contacts with other adult artists locally has been inspirational…”
Kim TreleavenCedarville, MI
“It is indeed a learning center…literally a hub of activity. Keep the ‘learning lights’ burning.”
Pat WilsonHessel, MI
“The Hessel School House and Avery Arts and Nature Learning Center has tapped into the essence of life within the Les Cheneaux Islands and enriched my life here. This National Heritage Site enriches, informs, educates, and brings children and seniors together to live our lives well in this community.
David MurrayCedarville, MI
“Because environmental education is part of our organization’s mission, we are thrilled to be able to work cooperatively with Hessel School House to use our nature preserves in that region as outdoor classrooms in a multitude of ways.”
Anne FlemingDirector of Communications | Little Traverse Conservancy
“I have so many happy memories from that school… It’s so nice to see that beautiful building being used and so well cared for.”
Sandra Wilson HoffmanWinter Haven, FL
“From my experience, it is the quintessential one-room world classroom where we learn, share and experience how to love the life…”
David MurrayCedarville, MI

SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Blastomycosis (Blasto) is a fungal disease that primarily affects dogs, some cats and, rarely, humans. Infections can be fatal if neglected. Pockets of Blasto infections have been reported across the USA, including the Eastern Upper Peninsula. It is likely that higher numbers of Blasto infections have been reported in recent years due to increased awareness, as well as from human encroachment into areas where the fungus naturally grows.

Presented by:

  • Dr. Carol Kauffman, MD – U of M Medical SchoolDr.
  • Daniel Langlois, DVM – MSU Veterinary College 
  • Dr. Taylor Miller, DVM – Pickford Veterinary Service
  • Special Guest, Dr. Clinton Groover, DVM – Pickford Veterinary Hospital

Funding for the taping of this event provided by a grant from the Les Cheneaux Community Foundation – Blastomycosis Education and Research Unendowed Fund and supported by the Les Cheneaux Watershed Council and Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center. 

This presentation aired LIVE from Hessel School House on Saturday, July 26, 2025

Thank You To Our Partners

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