founder's story
Welcome to The Wild School—where learning breathes freely under the open sky. I'm thrilled to share the journey that led to the creation of a sanctuary where children reconnect with nature and rediscover the joy of learning in its purest form.
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The Seed of an Idea
It all began with a simple, powerful realization. As a new parent, I witnessed firsthand the transformative effects of the outdoors on my young son. Each time we stepped outside, I saw him come alive in ways that indoor play and learning never seemed to spark. This wasn't just about fresh air; it was about seeing him engage fully—his first words to another child blossoming during a small nature program. That moment wasn't just moving; it was clarifying. I delved into research, quickly confronting a stark truth about modern childhood—too many hours inside, too few in the unbridled outdoors.
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A Vision Forms
Inspired by the principles of forest schools—educational institutions centered on outdoor play and learning in natural environments—I saw a path forward that resonated deeply with my own childhood filled with outdoor adventures. This discovery was a turning point. I knew I wanted more than just fleeting outdoor moments for my son and his peers; I envisioned a lifestyle, a community rooted in the profound lessons that only nature can teach.
In 2023, I trained as a nature-based educator and became a Texas Master Naturalist the following year. My diverse background in swim coaching and project management fueled my resolve to bring this vision to life. Despite the challenges of starting a new venture, from navigating bureaucracy to securing ideal locations across Houston, my commitment never wavered.
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Our Core Philosophy
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At The Wild School, we are guided by a set of unwavering principles:
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Nature as Teacher: We harness the inherent curiosity in children by turning every leaf and stream into a live lesson, fostering connections that textbooks simply cannot teach.
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Holistic Development: We design our programs to nourish the whole child—mind, body, and spirit—preparing them for a well-rounded future.
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Child-Led Exploration and Play-Based Learning: Our approach is rooted in the belief that children learn best when they lead. Our role? To spark their curiosity and stand back as they discover the wonders of the world.
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Environmental Stewardship: We start young, instilling a sense of responsibility for the earth that will shape their lives as future custodians of the planet.
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Community and Inclusivity: The Wild School is more than an educational institution; it is a vibrant community that celebrates diversity and fosters deep, meaningful connections.
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The Road Ahead
As we look to the future, our goals are bold but clear. We aim to expand our offerings within Houston, introducing innovative outdoor preschool and daycare programs that challenge the conventional confines of early education. By empowering children to lead their learning journeys, we not only reshape education but also inspire entire communities to prioritize nature-based living.
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Join Our Mission
The journey of The Wild School is just beginning. We invite you to join us as we create an environment where every child can experience the joy of learning powered by the natural world. Together, we can cultivate a future where nature is not only a part of childhood but the heart of it. Here’s to growing, learning, and thriving—together, in the wild.