“Let the children be free; encourage them; let them run outside when it is raining; let them remove their shoes when they find a puddle of water...let them rest peacefully when a tree invites them to sleep beneath its shade; let them shout and laugh..."

Our Teachers 

At Gilbert Nature School, we have approximately one teacher for every seven students. Our team is made up of adventurous, expressive, and intelligent humans who are passionate about living life to its fullest and making a meaningful contribution to society. We model respectful interactions, curiosity about the world around us, and empowered problem solving while creating a nurturing and supportive learning space for all of our students. 

Inquiry-Based Learning Our program is centered around interactive learning experiences that foster connections between teachers and students, students and their peers, and students and their environments. We are proud to offer a place-based education that immerses students in the unique ecosystem of the Sonoran Desert. Each project begins by engaging students in a conversation about what they are curious to learn. From there, we guide them in discovering answers to their questions, often through hands-on project-based learning that explores the natural world and the community around us. The final step is reflecting on the learning journey, turning these experiences into lasting memories. Throughout this process, children learn to ask more thoughtful, meaningful questions and develop creative ways to find solutions. Above all, this approach teaches them one of the most valuable skills: how to think independently.

Narrative Evaluations 

At Gilbert Nature School, we recognize that a child’s growth extends far beyond test scores or grades. We believe parents need a deeper understanding of how their child engages with peers, their cognitive and academic strengths, true passions, ability to self-reflect, and areas where they may need support. Unlike traditional report cards, our approach involves narrative evaluations that provide detailed insights and observations from our teachers. These evaluations offer a more comprehensive view of a child’s development. We regularly meet with parents to discuss their child’s progress and explore ways we can work together to support their learning journey. These narrative evaluations are also the foundation for creating a personalized, multi-year learning plan tailored to each child's needs.

Fresh Air and Freedom of Movement 

At Gilbert Nature School, we believe in the power of fresh air and the freedom to move. Research consistently shows that spending time outdoors not only supports physical health but also enhances cognitive, social, and emotional development. When children are free to explore and engage with the natural world, they experience increased creativity, improved concentration, and better problem-solving skills.

Outdoor environments encourage physical activity, which is essential for developing strong muscles, coordination, and motor skills. But it’s not just about exercise. Studies have found that outdoor learning spaces can reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and help children develop a greater sense of well-being. These benefits are particularly profound when children have the freedom to move, climb, and explore at their own pace.

We’ve designed our program to allow children to spend much of their days outside, interacting with nature and each other in meaningful ways. This freedom fosters independence, self-confidence, and a deeper connection to the environment. Whether running, climbing, or simply observing the world around them, students gain valuable experiences that support their overall growth, making learning not only more enjoyable but also more effective.