Here at Horizon Outschool, we balance our custom curriculum with life skills​​ in a growth mindset. We focus on nurturing the whole child instead of adhering to rigid compartments of curriculum.  Learning progress is communicated to parents via student journal entries, pictures posted in the private parent portal, and theme field trip details. 

Science and civics are natural outgrowths of the field trip subject matter and the activity schedule.  Reading, writing, and arithmetic are fully integrated into each day.  We use a multi sensory and cross-curricular approach to get it done.  For example, times tables might be learned with the jump rope, spelling is done with word games on the bus to the next activity, and writing is developed with daily journaling.  Worksheets will be used as needed during morning core learning. 

In addition to the core curriculum subjects, students enhance leadership skills with our one room schoolhouse design in which older students have opportunities to teach younger students. The chosen content works in harmony with the different stages of child development.   

Mentoring professionals/teachers help the older students grow their knowledge and learn practical skills. These specialists collaborate with teachers during field trips so that knowledge is applied to real-world concepts.  They complement units of study and provide a kind of mini apprenticeship.  

Public speaking is honed, critical thinking is deepened, and learning to disagree civilly is practiced through organized debates and group problem solving.  And every once in a while they will milk a goat and make cheese just for good measure. 

*We use stress free assessment methods.  Prior to the beginning of the term we will meet with students to determine individualized learning paths. At the close of the term this learning path will be revisited to gauge student progress.