Frequently Asked Questions

Why Heartwood Day School?

There is a clear need for schools that foster community, promote a relationship with nature, and nurture a child's curiosity to encourage students to become life-long learners. Recognizing that many current educational practices actually deter from the hope of nurturing students who are full participants in all of life, we committed ourselves to an unhurried, liberal arts, locally-based education that fosters a community-minded, collaborative spirit.

Is there an option for a half day?

At Heartwood, we see families as a priority and believe that children benefit from being as connected as possible to their home unit. Although we have planned a full day for our participants, we are open to a half day option*, asking that students leave after our outdoor lunchtime which ends at 1:20pm each day.

*opting for the half day does not change tuition pricing

What is your relationship with technology like iPads?

We are a minimum technology offering.

Although the teachers may use technology sparingly to enrich a subject, the students will not have access to any electronic devices and the teachers intend to be fully present to the students and use phones and computers to a minimum.

How much time do you spend outdoors?

Heartwood teachers can be heard to say “never be indoors when you can rightly be without” over and over again! Our day includes snack and lunch eaten out of doors as well as extended play time that is structured. Our Thursday outdoor classroom day will be spent outdoors all day, no matter the weather! And at least half of our Friday excursions will include a farm day, which is also out of doors.

Is there time for imaginative free play?

Yes! The balance of a rich curriculum, life-sustaining practices and routines, and ample time for unstructured free play is what we often call our 'secret sauce.' Designing an education 'for the children's sake' means honoring the whole child—respecting their personhood while fostering creativity, curiosity, and a deep engagement with the world.

What would a typical day look like?

Everyone gathers for Morning Time at 8:45. We sing folksongs, read a story together and narrate, recite and listen to poetry, and share nature finds and happenings.

Our day together will include: Copywork, Numbers and Patterns, Poetry, Geography and Mapwork, Architecture, Picture Study, Composer Study, Literature, Local History, Tales, Citizenship, Free Play, Handicrafts, Gardening and Cooking.