About Us
Social and Emotional Learning paired with Environmental Stewardship.
Over time our society has leaned towards risk-averse parenting, limiting children's opportunities for adventurous outdoor play. This shift has led to a generation of kids facing mental, physical, and emotional challenges without a true connection to our natural world.
In response, The Native School was established as a space where children can immerse themselves in the wild landscapes of Southern California, experiencing the joy of connecting to nature and the autonomous benefits of adventurous play.
The Native School was founded in 2011 by Shannon O. Shannon is an Early Intervention Specialist, who believes learning isn't just measured by simple outcomes, but by the "process" in which learning is retained.
What do we believe?
We believe in the transformative power of immersing children in the natural world, giving them the freedom to explore, play, and learn in a self-directed way. By fostering a deep connection to nature, we aim to ignite a lifelong passion for the environment, instilling a sense of stewardship and responsibility towards our planet. Encouraging adventurous play also empowers children to take calculated risks, building resilience, problem-solving skills, and self-confidence. We strive to create a society that values and protects the natural world, while offering children the invaluable growth and discovery opportunities that come with immersive play experiences.
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Rooted in the Reggio Emilia approach, our educational philosophy embraces the idea that children learn best through interactions with their environment, their peers, and themselves. Our teachers are intentional in guiding the knowledge-building process, honoring each child’s unique way of thinking and making meaning. We believe that every outdoor experience presents a learning opportunity, where understanding develops organically through exploration.
What do we do?
At our school, our dedicated teachers focus on nurturing the growth and development of the whole child, going beyond academics to include social and emotional learning. They scaffold essential skills like self-regulation, empathy, relationship building, and responsible decision-making, using Positive Guidance and Trauma-Informed approaches. Our educators guide students through the complexities of everyday interactions, helping them build a solid foundation for emotional understanding and healthy relationships.
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As stewards of nature, our educators incorporate lessons on environmental responsibility alongside skill development in alignment to state education standards and social-emotional learning. In our outdoor classrooms, educators instill a deep respect for the environment, teaching students to protect and care for the natural world. They model eco-conscious practices like "leave no trace," taking only what is needed, and expressing gratitude for the land. By facilitating self-determined, risky play, our educators encourage children to push their limits, enhancing their problem-solving abilities, self-confidence, and resilience. This approach empowers students to make informed choices, fostering responsible, all as mindful young stewards of our environment.
What will your child do at The Native School?
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Engage in experiential and emergent place-based learning
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Learn to mastery academic skills in core subjects aligned to California State Standards
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Receive explicit multi-sensory Literacy instruction within developmentally appropriate practices
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Apply early, emergent, and developing literacy skills utilizing multiple research methods, creative and descriptive multi-step narrations, and collaborative story projects.
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Develop excellent locomotor skills and confidence in their abilities through risky play
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Become champions of cooperation, teamwork, and balancing the rights of others with oneself
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Develop strong social and emotional skills including self-awareness, resiliency, and empathy
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Become a steward of the environment
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Develop a joy for lifelong learning and deeper understanding the natural world
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Our Guiding Purpose
Imagine a world where every child is free to play, naturally and without limits. A world where childhood brims with adventure, awe, and wonder. Where all children are nurtured through deep, meaningful connections with nature and their community. Where every child’s voice is heard, and their innate wisdom is trusted.
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