FOREST ELEMENTARY
Forest Elementary Education
Lunch time in the forest
The elementary education program offers a nature-immersion education that incorporates reading, writing, mathematics, arts, and language into the daily rhythm of the forest. The curriculum is uniquely cultivated, based on the observations of the children, and drawn from their daily discoveries. Children also have music and Spanish classes throughout the week to support and broaden their educational background.
Small teacher-child ratios allow for one-on-one attention in a wholesome, outdoor setting to encourage a love of nature and foster curiosity, self-reliance, teamwork, a passion for learning, and FUN. Classes will be modeled in a Montessori style to allow children of varying ages to interact and learn together.
Creating letters with nature
Elementary is a homeschool tutorial program
Details can be found on the FAQ page and in the Parent Handbook
Children enrolling in Kindergarten must be 5 years old by October 1st
Children enrolling in First Grade must have completed Kindergarten
Children enrolling in Second Grade must have completed First Grade
Assessments
Parents will receive regular reports on how students are meeting academic learning standards, as well as social, emotional, and physical development
Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled at least twice a year and as needed throughout the school year; we have an Open Door policy which allows parents to come to us at any time throughout the year to discuss their child’s needs
Physical requirements
Children must be able to follow directions carefully, demonstrate respect for other children, their teachers, and their environment, and be able to communicate effectively
Children will be going to the bathroom outdoors (however, there is a bathhouse onsite as well)
Attire
Children will spend each day outdoors and should be dressed for the weather. Details can be found on the FAQ page and in the Parent Handbook
Sample Daily Schedule
Monday - Friday 9:00am - 3:00pm
8:55 Drop off and free-play
9:00 Morning meeting
9:15 Rain gauge & weather reporting
9:30 Curriculum engagement (Forest School style)
10:15 Hike to first site for “nature bathing” (quietly observing the forest)
10:30 Snack and morning discussion
11:00 Free play and exploration
12:15 Lunch and hike to new site
1:00 Curriculum engagement (Forest School style)
3:00 Snack, dismissal, and pick-up
Grades Offered
For the 2023-24 school year, RGFS will have K-3 students. We aim to meet each child where they are academically, socially and emotionally. Not all “2nd graders” are at the second grade level for all subjects, they may be more or less advanced. We aim to support each child where they are and continue their learning journey to ensure they love learning (as much as we love teaching!). Additionally, RGFS wants to support the homeschool community by offering 2, 3, and 5 day/week options. RGFS is investigating adding a grade each year to support the growth and development of our students.