September 2023 — Down to Earth Forest School

And, we’re back!

Welcome to our 3rd year with the school age program. Things are really coming along as we begin the process of finding out who we are as a school and shaping our program to meet the needs of all enrolled.

Clan Updates

Preschool is back at it with hours of unstructured time and a FANTASTIC rotation of teacher/momma/helpers. This weather has made for some pretty dreamy days at school for the little ones and an easy transition. We have ten boys and only two girls. If you know someone with a preschool GIRL encourage them to come do a tour of the school, Ms. Ada Louise says “thank you in advance” for any leads!

Welcome Erin Gingerich to the forest school scene. Ms. G is our Earth Clan (kinder) teacher and comes with over 17 years of experience in education. Her bio is coming soon to our website. I am told the best part of kindergarten so far is the stuffed animals Erin bought and hand sewed pencil pouches to their bellies!

The first through fifth grade is grounding in to the new clan dynamic and developing relationship with their teachers and assistants. Erin and Audra are gently assessing kids this week and next so that they are put in the right grouping once the block schedule begins in a few weeks. If you’re not sure what the block schedule is or want more information reach out to me, Audra or ErinPaige and we can fill you in.

Fall Equinox is here

During school next week all the clans will be celebrating the fall equinox. Air clan will share with us what Equinox means with a short skit complete with Earth and Sun globes, Fire clan will be hosting our annual cider press and Water and Earth clans will revel in not yet having a leadership role. We encourage families to send to school any extra items that are coming out of the garden as we offer a sample table for children to try new things and visually see the bounty of the season.

Traditionally, the Autumn Equinox marks the end of the harvest season, where we take stock of what we have grown and gathered and give thanks for what we have received.