Our Philosophy

Project Wild Rooted believes childhood is a sacred season for wonder, formation, and rooted growth. We educate the whole child—mind, body, heart, and character through hands-on experiences, meaningful work, time in nature, and guided exploration. Children are not passive recipients of information but active participants in their learning, supported by teachers who observe, guide, and invite curiosity.

Learning at PWR is:

  • Experiential before abstract

  • Character-forming before performance-driven

  • Relationship-based before standardized

  • Rooted in creation, community, and responsibility

When we first began this journey, our mission was simple- to connect children deeply to the natural world. Over time, we’ve seen how this connection opens hearts, sparks wonder, and leads to meaningful conversations about the world around us. As followers of Christ, we recognize that this sense of awe and appreciation for nature naturally connects back to our Creator.

Beginning next year (2026-2027), we’ll be allowing ourselves to speak openly about our faith when conversations organically lead there, especially when it comes to where the world comes from, who made it, and how the beauties of nature are connected to creation.

We also want to be equally clear that Project Wild Rooted remains open and welcoming to all families. We do not plan on formalizing faith-based instruction but rather children may occasionally encounter casual references much like they would in everyday life. We will not require a statement of faith to participate, and will not have any structured religious instruction.

We believe deeply that loving as Christ loved means welcoming everyone with honesty, grace, and respect. Our hope is to continue fostering a community marked by curiosity, kindness, connection to the natural world, and genuine care for one another. And while our curriculum will remain firmly rooted in hands-on, experiential learning, we will be intentional about allowing opportunities to affirm creation in the years ahead.

We aim to cultivate capable, curious, grounded children who know how to care for themselves, one another, and the world around them.

Is Project Wild Rooted Montessori?

No. While we value hands-on learning and independence, PWR is more mentor-guided and community-oriented, with a stronger emphasis on character formation, nature immersion, and real-world contribution.

Is Project Wild Rooted Waldorf?

We share Waldorf’s appreciation for creativity, imagination, and natural materials, but PWR is less structured by age-based stages and more responsive to the child, the environment, and real-life learning opportunities.

Is Project Wild Rooted Charlotte Mason?

We align with Charlotte Mason’s belief in educating the whole child and fostering good habits, but PWR places greater emphasis on experiential learning, outdoor education, and practical life skills.

Is Project Wild Rooted child-led or teacher-led?

Neither. PWR is mentor-guided. Adults intentionally observe, model, and guide learning while honoring children’s curiosity, interests, and developmental readiness.

Is this a nature school?

Nature is not just a subject at PWR—it is the learning environment. Children learn academics, problem-solving, regulation, and responsibility through regular outdoor immersion.

What is the ultimate goal of PWR?

At Project Wild Rooted, our ultimate goal is not simply academic progress. We aim to nurture capable, curious, and rooted children. We develop learner’s confidence, resilience, and sense of responsibility. Through hands-on, nature-based experiences, children learn how to care for themselves, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and act as thoughtful stewards of the world around them.