In 1914, the founders of Community School had a vision for educating the next generation. In order to create a less rigid environment and better engage students in the adventure of learning, they drafted ten guiding principles for the school to follow. Now, more than 100 years later, the independent elementary and preschool in Ladue fosters the intellectual, emotional and creative growth of students by continuing to adhere to those foundational tenets. Among them is the idea that education should “open a child’s eyes to the wonders of nature, the stars, the universe and the world around them.”
Situated on 18 acres, Community School offers students several opportunities to explore the natural world. From a pond and nature trails to a one-of-kind treehouse classroom in the woods, there are a variety of environments for them to play and learn in. “Outdoor education offers students the chance for exploration, freeplay and creative expression,” senior kindergarten teacher Ellen Noel explains. “They get to exercise their imagination and problem-solving skills while taking risks, whether it’s climbing trees or working together to build something. Community School’s campus is like a backyard, and we encourage students to explore it and all nature has to offer.”
Outdoor education builds into the school’s dedication to nurturing the gifts of mind, body and spirit for every child. It’s a mission that begins with even the youngest learners at Community School. Junior kindergarten teacher Lauri Torrie notes that the school’s campus is an invaluable resource for her and her students. “There’s always the opportunity for something spontaneous to happen in nature,” she says. “Students get to watch and learn about wildlife, such as observing a praying mantis or discussing how we can be respectful of toads. I had a student get his boots stuck in the mud, and the class worked together to solve the problem. Opportunities like these don’t happen inside the classroom.”
Community School’s outdoor learning spaces are used across the curriculum. Science lessons are bolstered by hands-on experiences, P.E. classes get exercise in the fresh air, art students gather inspiration from nature and even math and language classes have outdoor sessions. Noel recalls she and her students worked together to transform a little-used patio space. “Originally, we put a rug outside to sit on and then decided to add some chairs, which the students enthusiastically worked together to build,” she says. “Adding stepping stones became a math lesson in counting, and building birdhouses sparked curiosity about different species. A small corner of the campus facilitated so many learning opportunities.”
At Community School, caring about the planet becomes second nature for students. The school community is encouraged to think about sustainability and its impact on the environment. Torrie is co-leader of the sustainability committee, helping develop initiatives like snack wrapper recycling, composting for leftover food or student-led efforts to clean up trash on campus trails. “I’m impressed with our students’ dedication to leaving the world better than they found it,” she notes. “Community School’s campus offers something unique, and we take advantage of the learning and growth that can happen when you not only explore but also protect the natural world.”
Community School is an independent preschool and elementary school for ages 3 through grade six. It believes in fostering the intellectual, emotional and creative growth of students to encourage their development as leaders of the next generation. Pictured on the cover: Senior kindergarten teacher Ellen Noel and students investigate caterpillars collected from the garden. For more information, call 314.991.0005 or
visit communityschool.com.
Cover design by Julie Streiler
Cover photo by Tim Parker Photography
Pictured at top: Junior kindergarten teacher Lauri Torrie works with students to create self-portraits
Photo: Tim Parker Photography
