Fern Gully Forest School is dedicated to providing a holistic outdoor education experience for children aged 3 to 6, focusing on the development of the whole child—physically, socially, emotionally, and intellectually. Founded by a group of mothers and professional educators, the school embraces Waldorf and Montessori-inspired methodologies that emphasize experiential learning in nature. Through engaging activities such as storytelling, music, art, puppetry, and imaginative play, children explore their surroundings on a mini-farm and within the lush Fern Gully Forest in East Olympia. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to foster resilience, creativity, confidence, social skills, and emotional intelligence. Daily activities include homesteading skills, environmental education, animal care, gardening, yoga and mindfulness practices, as well as ample opportunities for artistic expression. What sets Fern Gully apart is its commitment to nurturing a strong sense of community and connection to nature while maintaining a low student-teacher ratio that ensures personalized attention. The school also partners with the Community Nature Foundation to promote environmental conservation and education. This unique blend of nurturing guidance and immersive outdoor learning creates an environment where children can thrive both in school and in life.
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Ancient Futures Place-based Education is a unique outdoor preschool located in Olympia, Washington, dedicated to nurturing children aged 3 to 5 years through a holistic approach that emphasizes health, creativity, empathy, and resilience. The school’s core mission revolves around providing a play-based and place-based learning environment where children can immerse themselves in nature while engaging in arts experiences. By exploring local forests, beaches, and wetlands, students participate in wildcrafting, music and storytelling, and community gatherings that foster social-emotional learning within a pristine natural setting. With small class sizes and gentle guidance from dedicated educators, Ancient Futures creates a safe and relaxed atmosphere where each child is celebrated for their individuality. This nurturing environment not only encourages self-discovery but also instills a strong sense of place and connection to the world around them. What sets Ancient Futures apart is its emphasis on experiential learning combined with community involvement, ensuring that children develop into active citizens who care for both their natural surroundings and human communities.
Learn MoreOlympia Regional Learning Academy (ORLA) is dedicated to providing a nurturing and inclusive educational environment for students with diverse learning needs, specifically catering to those aged 11 to 21 who may face challenges such as language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptionalities. The school’s core mission is to empower each student to reach their full potential through tailored programs that incorporate innovative therapeutic methodologies, including personalized learning plans and collaborative teaching strategies. ORLA stands out for its low student-teacher ratio, which fosters meaningful connections and individualized attention, ensuring that every child receives the support they need. Additionally, the school emphasizes strong partnerships with families, creating a community of support that enhances the educational experience. With specialized facilities designed to accommodate various learning styles and unique community events that promote engagement and social skill development, ORLA is committed to nurturing not just academic success but also personal growth in a compassionate setting.
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