Nature-Inspired Learning
Child-Centered & Inclusive Philosophy
Emergent Curriculum Approach
Mission for Holistic Development
MISSION AND PHILOSOPHY
The Good Earth School provides each child (ages 18 months through 6) with a quality experience by utilizing the outdoors and nature as opportunities for learning. The development of the whole child is maximized through an organic connection with nature.
The Good Earth School seeks to nurture the whole child and as such, we believe that children benefit emotionally and physically when spending much of their time outdoors connecting with the natural world. This philosophy fosters social awareness and inclusion in our children. Our staff and teachers do not assign gender-specific roles, which gives all children an opportunity to play and learn equally, together as interdependent members of our school and society.
We value the natural curiosity in children and we understand our individual roles in encouraging the child’s active participation and creativity in their own learning process. In addition, our staff is also encouraged to develop a greater level of self-awareness through professional development and personal reflection and how it impacts their performance as teachers, mentors, leaders, and learners.
CURRICULUM
The Good Earth School is a play-based, nature-inspired educational institution that follows an emergent curriculum approach. Led by a certified Outdoor Classroom Specialist, the school emphasizes the importance of connecting children to the natural world, where outdoor activities enhance learning in reading, writing, science, and math, while promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles. Through exploration and hands-on experiences, children are encouraged to question, take risks, and solve real-life problems with the guidance of supportive teachers. The school’s child-centered environment empowers children to take charge of their own learning, fostering curiosity and critical thinking.
By tailoring lessons to children’s interests and passions, The Good Earth School’s emergent curriculum approach honors each child’s individuality and fosters their self-esteem. The school values cultural responsiveness, creating experiences that build confidence, appreciation for diversity, and educational success. At its core, The Good Earth School aims to nurture compassionate, capable individuals who understand and appreciate the natural world’s role in sustaining life.
LOCATION
The Good Earth School is nestled in a serene and picturesque location at 1 Lawson Road in Kensington, California. Our thoughtfully designed facility features spacious, sunlit classrooms that provide a welcoming and nurturing environment for learning. Children can enjoy two secure and well-maintained play yards that offer plenty of room for outdoor activities and exploration. What sets our school apart is its setting on a sprawling 9-acre property owned by The Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley. This nature-enriched campus provides children with ample opportunities to connect with the natural world, fostering creativity, curiosity, and a love for the outdoors in a safe and tranquil environment.
TUITION AND FEES
School is normally open Monday-Friday 7:45am-5:30pm – Holiday and vacation closures are listed on the yearly calendar.
The Good Earth School features a year-round program with scheduling options designed for working parents. Tuition is annualized and payable in 12 equal payments. There is no prorated tuition for months with breaks or holidays.
Toddler and Twos tuition is $100 additional per month for all programs.
Extra Hours: Supplemental childcare hours cost $25 per hour for occasional use for those not on full-day schedule upon availability.
Registration: New students pay a one time non-refundable reservation fee of $350. All students pay a $50 non-refundable registration fee due each year at renewal. Annual supplies fee is $350 billed each year with August tuition. $1,000 non-refundable deposit payment is due with registration. The deposit remains on account and is credited toward your final month of tuition with 30 days notice. The deposit will not be refunded for any reason if the student never attends TGES.
CALENDAR
SCHOOL YEAR 2024-2025
| August 13, 2024 | School Year Begins |
| August 27, 2024 | Back to School Night (South Building - Enrolled Families Only) |
| August 28, 2024 | Back to School Night (North Building - Enrolled Families Only) |
| September 2, 2024 | Labor Day - No School |
| October 14, 2024 | Indigenous Peoples’ Day - No School |
| November 11, 2024 | Veterans Day - No School |
| November 27, 2024 | Thanksgiving Eve - 12:00 PM closure |
| November 28, 2024 | Thanksgiving Day - No School |
| November 29, 2024 | Friday After Thanksgiving - No School |
| Dec 23 - Jan 3, 2025 | Winter Break - No School |
| January 1, 2025 | New Year's Day - No School |
| January 20, 2025 | Martin Luther King Jr. Day - No School |
| January 31, 2025 | Staff Development Day - No School for Students |
| February 17, 2025 | President's Day - No School |
| April 7-11, 2025 | Spring Break |
| May 26, 2025 | Memorial Day - No School |
| June 20, 2025 | Juneteenth Observed - No School |
| July 4, 2025 | Independence Day - No School |
| July 18, 2025 | Staff Development Day - No School for Students |
| July 25, 2025 | Final Day of School Year |
| HOLIDAY CLOSURES: | |
| Dec 23 - Jan 3, 2025 | Winter Break - No School |
| April 7 - 11, 2025 | Spring Break - No School |
| July 28 - Aug 8, 2025 | Summer Break - No School |
