As Pulaski County Special School District and Little Rock School District release their plans for the fall during these strange and challenging times, Ferncliff is considering ways that we can support families. We recognize that many families are uncertain about sending their children back to a full-time indoor school environment, but it may not be feasible for them to stay at home with their children. While we understand that the local school administrators and leaders are working hard to provide a safe environment for children, we know there is not a “one size fits all” solution during these uncertain times.

With the resource of outdoor space and the availability of our buildings this fall, we’re exploring expanding our Ferncliff Nature School programs to incorporate a daytime option for elementary-aged children during the fall semester.

We’re imagining we could provide small groups of 10 or less students, socially distanced activities, study hall time for schoolwork to be done, and plenty of nature. Students would spend much of the day time in the outside environment, participating in camp activities and engaging in self-led nature exploration with staff acting as facilitators of learning. Students would also be given two designated times per day to spend on schoolwork or other quiet individual activities such as reading or drawing.

As we move through the planning stages, we would love to hear from you! If this sounds like something that might be helpful to your family, please fill out our interest survey and tell us about it!

Learn more about this concept on our LearnCliff page.