Freedom High School
Center for Environmental and Natural Sciences
Center for Environmental and Natural Sciences
The Center for Environmental and Natural Sciences (CENS) is a rigorous four-year program of studies designed to include strong laboratory and field investigation components. The program integrates mathematics, science, technology, and communication skills while providing students with opportunities to investigate environmental and natural science topics.
Students participating in CENS may pursue areas of study in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, or Law and Public Safety.
Application Information
Specialty program applications will be accepted November 2, 2026 - February 1, 2027.
Visit the Specialty Programs Application Process website to learn more about the application process.
Who can apply?
All PWCS students in grades 9, 10, and 11.
Program Requirements & Course Sequences
Students should consult the current PWCS High School Course Catalog – Center for Environmental and Natural Sciences for the official CENS course sequences and requirements.
Students should work with their school counselor and CENS staff to select courses appropriate for their chosen pathway and graduation plan.
Program Information
Transfer Program
Students participating in this program will transfer to the program location for all courses and activities.
Express bus transportation is available to accepted students living outside the program location boundaries through Specialty Program Transportation.
Learn More About the Center for Environmental and Natural Sciences Program
Center for Environmental and Natural Sciences at Freedom HS
The mission of CENS is to promote environmental citizenship and a sustainable community through challenging hands-on collaborative learning experiences that encourage innovative thinking, problem-solving, and leadership within our school and community. Freedom High Schools aims to create a sustainable society of students that embodies respect and care for the community of life and ecological integrity.
Students in Action
CENS students participate in a clean-up of FDHS pond. As students picked up litter, items were classified as trash or recyclables, tallied, and weighed.
CENS students adopt Freedom's Pond and learn about storm water drainage with help from PWC Water and Soil Conservation District and the Dept. of Public Works
CENS students turn old pickle barrels into rain barrels with help from Friends of the Occoquan
CENS students reuse milk cartons from the cafeteria to plant seedlings using Freedom's Greenhouse
CENS students enjoy nature at Meadowood Park