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"EdenAcres is exactly what our family was looking for to supplement our homeschool curriculum. A chance to make and maintain friendships, gain independence, and be physically active while enjoying the outdoors in a safe, supportive environment. A big component of why we chose to homeschool is to make sure we foster a love of learning in our children, and to enable them to interact with the natural world with regularity, instead of spending most days indoors- EdenAcres provides that, and more. We feel so lucky to have this amazing resource close by, and greatly value the opportunities it brings to our children.”

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Sandra

FOREST KEEPERS GUILDS
For kids ages 12-15

Venture into the mythical world of Hollowcroft Nest with the Forest Keepers Guilds! Embark on a thrilling adventure where you create your character and choose your path—become a mage, adventurer, or craftsman. Unite with fellow guild members, guided by skilled Guild Masters, as you explore enchanted forests, craft magical tools, and solve the mysteries of this magical realm. Level up by mastering real outdoor skills like wilderness survival, animal tracking, herbal crafting, and woodworking. Discover new powers, grow your talents, and face fantastic challenges as you journey through Hollowcroft Nest and beyond!

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Set within our expansive 40 acre Forest Campus, students embark on a journey of exploration, leadership, and skill-building, with the opportunity to join one of our exciting Guilds—each offering a unique path of discovery and mastery in this enchanted realm.

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In the Guilds of Hollowcroft Nest, students can choose to immerse themselves in hands-on projects that blend creativity, teamwork, and stewardship. Whether crafting magical remedies in the Mages Guild, forging tools for exploration in the Adventurers Guild, or designing community-enhancing creations in the Creators Guild, students are empowered to explore their passions and develop their abilities, all within the rich lore and wonder of Hollowcroft Nest.

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At Forest Keepers, we see each student as a discoverer. Our role is to support their unique gifts and talents as they push their comfort zones and hone their skills—becoming confident, self-sufficient and resilient. 

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The Forest Keepers experience fosters a lifelong love of learning, adventure, and nature. In the magical world of Hollowcroft Nest, our Guilds provide a unique opportunity for students to combine creativity, collaboration, and the challenges of real-world problem solving, turning learning into a captivating journey.

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Daily Rhythm**

9:00 - 9:15     Drop-off

9:00 - 9:30    Morning Circle/Team Building Activity

9:30 - 10:30  Game/Movement/Hike

10:30 - 11:00  Snack & Free Exploration

11:00 - 12:30  Ancestral Skills/Project/Skill Building

12:30 - 1:30    Lunch & Free Exploration

1:30 -  2:30    Science-Based Inquiry/Stewardship Project

2:30 -  2:45    Clean-up & Closing Circle/Reflection

2:45 -  3:00    Pick-up

 

**The daily rhythm described above is an example of the flow of the day. Instructors practice emergent and child-centered learning, meaning that we adjust and modify with the changing needs and interests of the children while incorporating in whatever the forest or farm has to offer on that specific day. 

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Our Staff

Our Nature Educators come from a variety of backgrounds including Waldorf education, natural sciences, outdoor education abroad, and more. No matter their educational background, all are experienced and passionate about sharing nature with children. Instructors are certified in CPR/First Aid and epipen administration. Staff ratios for Forest Explorers are no larger than 8 students with 1 teacher. All adults in the program have passed full FBI background checks.

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When:   

Fall and Spring Semesters   

Mondays and Wednesdays

9:00 am-3:00 pm 

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Dates:  

Fall Semester: 9/9/24 - 1/22/25

First day of fall semester: Monday, September 9


Spring Semester: 1/27/25 - 5/21/25

First day of spring semester: January 27, 2025

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Where:

Hillsboro Forest School Campus @ 16528 Johnson Road, Hillsboro, OR 97124 (use this link for forest school entrance)

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How Much?

We use an equitible pricing model we call Choose-Your-Tuition. This model includes three options for families to choose from: Sliding Scale; Standard Rate; and Pay-It-Forward. Click here to learn more!

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Equity in Education is one of our core values. Our tuition model puts this value into action. It is one way that we are increasing access to alternative education for families across the economic spectrum. We invite you to join us in this vision of a better, more equitable world! 

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Attend a Charter School?? 

We accept school funds from many charter and online charter schools! 

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Questions? Send us an email at naturedays.edenacres@gmail.com 

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At the heart of the Forest Keepers experience are the Guilds, where students dive into specialized skills and hands-on projects led by experienced Guild Masters. Each guild offers a unique path of exploration, discovery, and mastery:

 

Mages Guild

Led by Storm, the Mages Guild taps into the mystical properties of nature, using natural materials to create potions, spells, medicines, and dyes. Here, students gain wisdom and power by immersing themselves in their environment and discovering the magical and medicinal properties of the natural world.

Mages Guild Projects:

  • Create a flower press/field guide detailing edible plants, dye properties, and medicinal uses.

  • Craft herbal salves and potions.

  • Learn the art of natural dyeing.

  • Craft a magical staff, adding enchanted objects and materials to amplify its power.

  • Brew herbal teas and create nature-inspired food.

 

Adventurers Guild

Under the guidance of Charaka, the Adventurers Guild focuses on the skills needed to explore the wild, face its dangers, and create tools for hunting and protection. Students develop the strength and confidence of seasoned explorers.

Adventurers Guild Projects:

  • Forge swords, shields, and bows.

  • Craft boomerangs, nets, and traps for survival and defense.

 

Creators Guild

Led by Sly, the Creators Guild is for those who want to combine creativity with practicality, crafting items that enhance the community and the natural world. From innovative designs to functional tools, students will develop hands-on skills to create beauty and utility.

Creators Guild Projects:

  • Weave soft fiber baskets and craft rose bead necklaces.

  • Knit scarves and weave mats, hats, and hammocks.

  • Build tables and other essential structures for the village.

  • Create eco-friendly tools like natural dyes, recycled materials projects, and upcycled art.

  • Design shelters or outdoor furniture using wood and forest materials.

 

At Forest Keepers, students choose their path and develop their skills in a supportive and engaging environment. Whether they join the Mages, Adventurers, or Creators Guild, they will gain the tools to thrive in nature and their community.

equitable tuition model
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