05/08/2022
Hello Everyone,
New Direction
All good things take time, right? After discussing the timeline for launching the Summer Sessions and Hedge School program this year with the Hutchinsons, we have decided that in order to make this program as incredible as it promises to be, we are going to delay launching the program in its current form until next year.
Naturally, I am disappointed that I will not be able to work with your K-2 children at the Ranch this year, and my deepest apologies go out to those of you who were hoping for expecting this to materialize, but I have accepted that this is the way things need to be for the time being. Like I always say to my students, “We can do hard things.” Read on to find out what else I might cook up.
Different Focus
I believe in modeling resilience, so the gears are already turning on what else I can do to utilize and share my expertise, passion, and love of nature with children in the area. Here are some things I am considering pivoting to while we continue to work on the program at the Ranch:
Family, Friends, & Neighbors (ages 4+, full day, limited to 4 children, outside at public parks and SWAs)
Family Child Care Home-based Program based at my home, for licensing purposes, but utilizing the outdoors at public parks and SWAs
School Programs (Classes spend a day at the park or SWA with me doing Forest School activities)
Homeschool Enrichment in the form of Forest School outings and activities
Afterschool Collaborations (Boys & Girls Club and other similar programs)
Teacher, parent, and caregiver trainings focused on outdoor education, incorporating the Forest School Model, and environmental education
If you would have any interest in having your child (or yourself) participate in these types of programs, I would deeply appreciate your thoughts and feedback on the content, context, and feasibility of these offerings in the area by filling out the survey below. Thank you!
Link to Survey:
I appreciate you taking the time to help me understand the needs and capacity of the UARV community. As I reorient myself to different offerings, your thoughts and feedback will be vital to me being able to provide something worthwhile and potent for your children. Thank you for being here! Justin B...
