Hawks

Hawks, our TK/K class!

Like all of our classes, Hawks is a child led, inquiry and nature-based group. This group will take this inquiry based learning one step further to foster early academic skills as they emerge from each child. Hawks is a ‘hike-out’ class meaning they will begin their day at 8:30a in our regular Base Camps and hike out for a day of explorations and investigations. Hawks will start the year mapping their surroundings and learning safety techniques on the trail. The emergent curriculum of this group will be woven together with TK/K level learning themes such as early literacy and math skills, social-studies, and science of the natural world. The Hawk's year of investigation, learning, and emergent curriculum will culminate in a final project chosen by the students.

There will be no work sheets and no homework, and through pictures and anecdotal observations found on our weekly parent blog, you will feel connected to your child’s learning every step of the way. Each year’s culminating project is different and unique to the students in the class. Sometimes there are even two! Maybe the Hawks will, as a group, write a book, collectively create a sculpture, write songs about their namesake bird, or even create a play. Hawks students drive their work, making each year unique. We also have 2 parents teacher conferences a year to be sure everyone is on the same page regarding their child's development.

Please note, our school requires monthly tuition payments and Hawks students are required to commit to the program for the full year.

Hawks runs Sept 9th-June 7th 2024-2025

Summer Session 2024 dates see “Summer Camp” page.

Monday-Friday 8:30-1:30 with option of 2, 3, or 5 days/wk

Your child must be 3.75-6 years old by Sept 9st 2024 to join the Hawks.

1:5 student to teacher ratio. Class is capped at 12 children.

Hawks should be comfortable using a potty, sorry, no diapers.

Questions? Contact us here

Hawks daily flow example:

Hawks Arrive at 8:30 and prepare for the day with their peers.

A welcome circle and discussion of they day 

Pack up, use the restroom, set aside materials not needed for the trek!

Mid-Morning happenings:

~Head out for an exploration based around mapping, natural material collection, flora and fauna investigations and/or continue work on emergent curriculum. Hawks will always have opportunities to  work on nature observations, run, play, climb, and work together. 

~Sometimes Hawks will stay in the classroom, especially at the beginning of the year when they are growing their group cohesions. They will work with materials, hang out on the library blanket, work with arts or scientific materials, begin their nature observations, run, play, climb, and work together.

~Snack timing is decided by the culture of the classroom. Some classes prefer rolling snack while others prefer to sit down at the same time. 

Return hike and/or clean up with a water break, midday meeting to review the findings and goings on of the day. A few songs and onto hand washing for lunch.

Lunch

End of day book and journalling on the library blanket. Followed by a goodbye song or two

1:30 parents should be waiting, social distanced, near the classroom for pick up. Have a great afternoon.