The Chewonki Foundation in Wiscasset is opening an innovative, intentionally small independent day school, the Elementary School at Chewonki, for grades 3-6, in September 2016. A pilot version of the program has been under way this year. Families interested can attend an open house on Sunday, March 13, 2 to 3:30 p.m., at Chewonki.

“We believe deeply in the value of rigorous academic and experiential outdoor learning for students of all ages,” said Willard Morgan, president of Chewonki. “Chewonki’s board of trustees voted unanimously on February 10 to graduate this year’s successful pilot program into a school for grades 3-8. We have educated children this age for 101 years in summer and school-year programs. Now we are inviting families from surrounding towns to learn about the Elementary School for next year and beyond.” Grades 7 and 8 will be added over the next several years as the school grows to a planned size of 36 students.

The school’s curriculum combines academics with outdoor experience through an integrated program of science, math, reading, writing, social studies, and the arts. Students spend a significant part of each day learning in nature. The place-based focus of the program allows investigative, real-world learning so students can develop meaningful ties to the community and the natural world.The social curriculum is equally important and nurtures lifelong learners.

“Each day, we incorporate team-­building and challenge activities that include sharing work and ideas, small-group collaboration, and reflecting together to ensure that all voices are heard,” explained Kat Radune, lead teacher. “We create an autonomous and supportive learning environment for all students. And we have fun!”

The school takes full advantage of Chewonki’s unique resources, including 101 years of expertise in nature-based teaching; a working farm; animals, from sheep to owls; and 400 acres of forest, fields, intertidal shoreline, ponds, and salt marsh, allowing myriad opportunities for hands-on learning; fosters problem-solving through engaging students in real-life, place-based activities; and offers curriculum relevant to Next Generation Science Standards, National Council for Social Studies Learning Targets, and Common Core standards for mathematics and literacy.

Morgan added, “We expect our experience with the Elementary School to inform and augment our collaboration with educators in Maine, especially our local school partners.”

The open house will give parents and children the opportunity to explore the classroom and campus, meet staff, understand the flow of the school day and curriculum, and learn more about the enrollment process, including financial aid available based upon demonstrated need. Spaces are limited for 2016-2017. Additional open houses are scheduled for April 10 and May 15, 2-3:30 p.m.

RSVP to Anna Hunt at elementaryschool@chewonki.org or207-882-7323. For more information about the school, go to chewonki.org.