Philosophy

At 2nd Nature Academy, we are committed to fostering an appreciation for our natural world and to building a sustainable community through innovative approaches to learning.  We strive to provide a learning environment that enables children to experience success in all curriculum areas through the use of an integrated, multi-sensory curriculum.  It is our belief that  children do not rely on any single intelligence, but must summon several to attain a goal.  Therefore, we provide many varied instructional methods in order to create a more diverse learning climate.  We also value cooperation, interaction, and willingness to accept challenges.  We focus on individual strengths and value the uniqueness of each learner.  While there are many curricular goals we set out to achieve, the process we use to accomplish these objectives varies from child to child.  By providing diversified materials and numerous opportunities for observation, exploration, and inquiry, nearly all children will become true learners and problem solvers.  

• To provide a student-centered learning environment that focuses on the whole child
• To embrace eight intelligence strengths as indicated by Dr. Howard Gardner of Harvard University
• To provide the fundamentals of education using inquiry-based learning and multi-sensory instruction
• To foster an attitude of cultural appreciation
• To support physical, social and emotional well-being
• To promote values and life skills such as responsibility, punctuality, consideration, kindness, understanding, and compassion
• To encourage an appreciation of our natural environment
• To develop an enthusiasm for learning and acquiring new skills