ABOUT US
Education Built On Connection
Connection to Self ~ Connection to Nature ~ Connection to Others
Education for a modern world means thinking outside the box.
Bridges Outdoor School removes the walls for hands-on learning in nature from nature.
Core subjects aren't taught, they are experienced.
Education built on connection prioritizes academic excellence alongside emotional, physical, social, spiritual, and cognitive development because we recognize true, meaningful, authentic success is holistic.
NATURAL SETTING
Fresh air, natural light, the variety of textures, sights, and sounds found outdoors, and connecting with the many wonders of the natural world promote the well-being of all participants, fostering their emotional, physical, social, spiritual, and cognitive development.
LIFELONG LEARNERS
Curiosity is celebrated, critical thinking is cultivated, and the discovery of self-knowledge catapults students into becoming active learners and lifelong contributors to society.
MULTI-AGE LEARNING
Allows older students to serve as role models and mentors for younger ones, building empathy, leadership, interpersonal communication skills, and fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
LEARNER-CENTERED
A microschool with small group sizes that focus on individual interests and abilities to spark engagement, encouraging participants to take initiative, make choices, and drive their own learning.
COMMUNITY and SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Discovering a strong sense of place and purpose in our community, students become aware of opportunities to work together to make a difference, and develop an attitude of social responsibility through outreach and service.
SUPPORTED RISK-TAKING
Participants are given opportunities to take appropriate risks in a safe and supportive environment, promoting resilience, confidence, and independence.
CREATIVITY
Expression through music, movement, art, and practicing resourcefulness bolsters self-esteem bringing joy and fulfillment.
OUR STORY
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