Yoga & Mindfulness
Yoga and Mindfulness class offers time for students to pause and anchor through breath, senses, and movement. Led by Clare Desmelik, students practice centering and meeting themselves and the world in the present moment. After taking some deep breaths and getting into the body with a nice stretch, a sweet awareness arises. Paying kind attention to our thoughts, noticing our emotions, and just ‘being’ in our bodies, provides benefits that ripple on…on and off of the mat.
Spanish
Incorporating another language into the daily rhythm allows students to be aware of the world around them. Clare Desmelik guides each age group through a Spanish class once a week. Spanish works are also available in the classroom. The goal of the Spanish classes is to give the student the proper vocabulary and tools to become fluent in his future. Classes are meant to give awareness to the many cultures and traditions that come along with the romantic language.
Music & Movement
Once a week, each age group has a music or movement class. Rick Hastings and Tiffany Santiero are our teachers. Students can expect to learn songs, how to read music, how to play instruments and move their bodies.
Outdoor Education
Connection with nature is a vital piece to our program. We are grateful for our campus at Brevard Music Center and all of the access it provides to the outdoors. Allison Nergart and Nick Pearl are the instructors.
OE and Otter Assistant Teacher Nick Pearl says: “From teaching the Kinders how to control their bodies, to creating a connection between nature and mindfulness with the Acorns, starting fitness tracking with the Monarchs, and practicing fire building and plant identification with the Coyotes, I am always learning, too! My students have truly shown me what community can create in an educational environment.”
Art
Each age group also participates in a group art class once a week. Nicole Mihalas is our Art Teacher and leads the students through creative expression via handcraft. Projects include fiber arts, pottery, painting, collage, and nature art, among other things.