New green school concept for Montgomery County, MD

Seneca Creek Nature School
where children learn in their natural environment

 

Seneca Creek Nature School (SCNS) plans to open in 2011 as a public charter school serving elementary-aged children in Montgomery County, Maryland. Charter schools are free, publicly-funded secular schools that do not screen applicants. SCNS will follow State of Maryland academic goals and standardized testing requirements. As a charter school, SCNS has the flexibility to apply different methods of achieving these goals.

Seneca Creek Nature School will use a well-rounded, challenging curriculum to incorporate the natural world into everyday learning. Research shows that engaging, hands-on educational experiences benefit children intellectually, emotionally and physically.

Seneca Creek Nature School will foster a collaborative—rather than competitive—learning environment by:

·         Encouraging children to make discoveries for themselves and solve problems creatively.

·         Using a portfolio-based assessment system rather than a standard grading system to evaluate each child’s progress.

·         Providing ample time for children to develop their conflict resolution, leadership and other social skills.

·         Structuring the school day with plenty of outdoor time

 

Learn more about Seneca Creek Nature School, and receive updates on our progress! Visit http://senecacreeknatureschool.org to join our mailing list, read about the benefits of alternative methods of education, and support our efforts.