What Parents Should Consider Before Choosing This School Model

Our Co-Creation School is unique, offering freedom, nature immersion, and holistic learning. However, it may not be the right fit for every family. Here’s what parents should know:

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1. Learning Philosophy: No Traditional Curriculum

• Interest-Based Learning – Students learn academic subjects and life skills in interesting, applicable ways to them.

• Experiential Education – Learning happens through hands-on projects, nature immersion, and real-world interactions.

• No Grades or Tests – Progress is assessed through experience and personal development, not standardized evaluations. Facilitators will provide guidance on building portfolios, especially for high school students. Portfolios are beneficial for admission to college or for pursuing internships and career paths. ​

Parental Consideration:

• Are you comfortable with student-driven learning via various options presented?​

2. Nature-Based Learning

• Outdoor Learning – Students are encouraged to spend much of their day outside, building structures, exploring, and doing science-related and mindfulness-based activities. 

• Minimal Technology – Unlike mainstream schools, there is limited screen-based learning. They will have designated time for work on specific projects on the laptops provided. We will occasionally use our projector when helpful for lessons.

• Eco-Living Practices – We focus on sustainability, permaculture, nurturing life, and self-sufficiency.​

Parental Consideration:

• Does your child thrive outdoors, in multiple settings, and with various hands-on projects, or do they prefer a more structured, indoor classroom at a desk?

• Are you aligned with nature-based values?

3. Self-Care & Holistic Development

• Mindfulness & Energy Awareness – Some practices may include meditation, visualization, and intuitive learning.

• Connection to Nature as a Wellness Practice – We promote how connection to nature is vital for balanced health and provide natural medicine resources.

• Emphasis on Emotional & Social Growth – Learning includes personal reflection, space for integrating/processing emotions, storytelling, and community involvement.

Parental Consideration:

• Are you comfortable with nature-based medicine in your child’s education?

• Do you want a school that values emotional intelligence and holistic well-being?​

4. Democratic Governance & Responsibility

• School Meetings – Students and staff all contribute to class agreements, creating a democratic community.

• No Hierarchy – Staff act as guides rather than authority figures. Students have leadership opportunities to teach as well.

• Personal Responsibility – Students and staff work together to handle conflict resolution, set schedules, and participate in decision-making.

Parental Consideration:

• Do you believe children can make responsible choices about their learning with  guidance?

• Are you okay with a school where adults don’t dictate academic paths?​

5. Transition to College or Career

• No Traditional Transcripts – Colleges may require portfolios or alternative admissions pathways that we can help guide families through.

• Strong Self-Motivation Required – Success depends on the student’s ability to set and pursue their own goals, which adults can help them figure out.

• Unique Skill Set – Graduates will be independent thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and adaptable learners, able to navigate adult life with practical skills and the foundations for long-term healthy relationships. ​

Parental Consideration:

• Are you prepared to help your child document their learning for future opportunities if applicable? 

• Is your child self-motivated to pursue further education, a career, or lifestyle of their choice independently?

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Sharpening Stone 6 Day Skills Camp

At the end of the school year our teens will have the opportunity to join us at Sharpening Stones' skills camp! It's an incredible way for them to connect deeply in and with nature, learn primitive self-sufficiency skills, and be a part of a nourishing community! https://www.thesharpeningstone.org/classes-offered-1

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