About Us

Education Built On Connection

Connection to Self

Connection to Nature

Connection to Others

Children learning at a forest school in Iowa

Our Story

Bridges Outdoor School owners previously Little Earth Forest School Iowa

Years ago, my husband Bret and I had a family dream to use the world as our classroom. During a trip to Denmark we visited a public school and were inspired by the obvious differences. Bikes that lined the sidewalks were evidence of the students’ (and their parents’) primary mode of transportation - rain or shine. A rock-climbing wall acted as stairs between levels for energetic students who were also met by hallway obstacle courses to conquer between classes. Family-style meals were prepared onsite with fresh, whole ingredients from the school garden, which neighbored the children’s farm animals. It planted a seed in us.

The idea of providing a wholistic advanced education in nature, that fosters resilience, confidence, connection and social skills, while seamlessly integrating academics was a dream come true for our family as we partnered with Little Earth Forest School based in Ojai, CA. We learned a lot through our two years with them. We also recognized barriers and opportunities specific to our Iowa communities. Bridges Outdoor School is the result of our desire to bring an innovative educational approach combining Montessori, Waldorf, and Forest School frameworks to more children and families of our beloved community in central Iowa.

We’re literally using the world as our classroom as we open central Iowa’s first and only full-time pre-k through 5th grade Outdoor School. If you are dreaming of a better, human-centered, wholistic education for your children, like we did for ours, we are here to answer all of your questions and show you the possibilities.

Love,

Alison, Bret, Millie, Gus Van De Pol