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Through both chores and work projects
students are directly involved with staff in the physical work of
running the school. Work projects happen one morning a week throughout
the year, and every day during the weeks before Thanksgiving, Field
Trips, and Graduation. We do not usually hire anyone just to clean,
manage, and/or prepare our community buildings, grounds, work spaces,
and living spaces. This work is done collectively and helps create a
sense of ownership for staff and students alike.
Students experience reasonable physical challenges, spend time
outdoors, and have the opportunity to participate in purposeful work
needed by their community. They see the impact of their
efforts and enjoy the fruits of their labors. This part of
our program affords many valuable opportunities for students to
experience an adult level of capability.
The kitchen is a classroom where each student gains a valuable
education. Every day a student assists in meal preparation for lunch.
Students gain a working familiarity with nutrition, following and
improvising recipes, kitchen math, meal planning, and hygiene and
sanitation in the kitchen. We prepare meals from wholesome, natural
ingredients. Food is homegrown as much as possible, and meals in the
school dining room are vegetarian. For many students this is a new type
of diet. Our goal is for students to learn the importance of eating a
healthy and varied diet and to acquire confidence and pleasure in
cooking.
In addition to teaching practical skills such as carpentry, gardening
and meal planning and preparation, our work program fosters good work
habits, self- confidence and a sense of group responsibility.
