It’s the only accredited nature-based preschool in the region, allowing children 50 percent of their school day in the classroom and the other 50 in lessons outdoors. Elachee Nature Science Center’s existing Nature Preschool program is expanding and rebranding into the Elachee Nature Academy, with an additional nature-based kindergarten and first-grade program beginning in August. Kim Marks, development and communications director for Elachee, said the expansion is a response to interest and demand from parents.