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  • Marguerite's Place | 2nd Nature Academy

    Top of Page About the Organization About the Project Engage Your Child Service Learning November 2024 - Project B Holiday Gifts for Children in Need MAIN MENU The holiday season is full of lights, loved ones, feasting, and, yes, gift giving across many different cultures, religions, and traditions. For some families, however, it is a time of increased financial stress and children going without. That's why each year around the holidays, we don our Santa hats and return to one of our favorite service learning projects to help change that for some local families. Each November, we run a gift card drive as part of Marguerite's Place Holiday Giving Program. The recipients are mothers and their children who are experiencing homelessness and/or fleeing from unsafe domestic conditions. Through community donations, these mothers are provided the opportunity to do their own holiday shopping for their children, and also fulfill their needs for basic necessities. So, yet again, we invite you to join us in spreading warmth, security, and joy this holiday season! Mission Marguerite’s Place is on a mission to transform the lives of families working to achieve safety, stability and independence by fostering connection and providing holistic, individual and group support offerings, including transitional housing for women and their children, as well as early childhood education, and group-based community programs for all. Programs Transitional Housing Safe, private apartments where mothers and children experiencing homelessness can stabilize and rebuild. Early Childhood Education Low-cost child care with social-emotional learning curricula that ensures children meet their developmental milestones. Community Programming Supportive group programming where parents develop success skills and build meaningful connections. Sponsored Families 2024 Family 1: Ashlyn and her son, Ayden (10) Family 2: Felicia, her son, Farell (10) and daughter, Faith (4) Sponsor a Gift How to Engage Children Service learning is not just about donating. In fact, the meaning is in the name. At SNA, students perform acts of service as a means of education about the greater world around us, the role we each play in our communities, and how we can all contribute to building a better future. We encourage families with children of all ages to further this discussion at home to engage their children as active participants in both acts of service and acts of giving. 1 Discuss the issue of poverty with your child, in an age-appropriate manner. 2 Encourage them to contribute an amount they deem fair to a gift card donation. If your child earns an allowance, you can talk about the power of giving, for both the giver and the recipient. How do they feel when they receive a gift? What about when they give one? 3 Make a project of it! Ask your child if they would like to make a card for a family recipient, because gift giving doesn't solely need to be about monetary value. Sometimes the act of spreading love and cheer can go a long way in letting others know they are not alone.

  • Camp Lovewell Survey

    Camp Lovewell is the camp for kids who don't mind getting their hands dirty or their feet wet. Enjoy the great outdoors as we embark on a summer journey of inquiry, observation, and exploration. Campers will discover all of the wonders of our fields, forests, ponds, wetlands, and working farm as they are provided the opportunity to participate in various activities and programs that will stretch their imagination and test their capabilities.

  • Testimonials | 2nd Nature Academy

    Read what families, students, and alumnus have to say about a 2nd Nature Academy education. Testimonials NICHOLE ANDREW Parent If you are looking for a small school atmosphere with a truly unique learning experience where students are encouraged to explore, inquire, collaborate, create, analyze, and solve relevant problems through their experiential learning approach, then we highly recommend 2nd Nature Academy! LEAH DONAHUE Parent [2nd Nature Academy] has fostered an incredible sense of individualism, acceptance, creative thinking, critical thinking, project-based learning, kindness—the list goes on. [My daughter] wakes up excited to go to school, and the staff and teachers truly and genuinely care for [her]. I feel she couldn't be better supported or positioned for a successful future. DEREK BOBBIT Alumnus Their advanced classes gave me a boost for the complex math [and science] that I am currently learning. I also find projects are easier for me to manage [because of my experience at 2nd Nature Academy] and the curriculum helped me gain merit badges for the Boy Scouts. 2nd Nature Academy gave me the foundation I needed to make it to where I am today. LAUREN & RICK HAJJAR Parents In addition to a strong academic focus, our children are learning the competencies needed for future success such as empathy, self and group awareness, financial management and communication skills. [...] Most importantly, they are happy at 2nd Nature Academy. They feel respected, heard and understood within this school community. At the end of the day, that is our measure of success! ELIZABETH CUNNINGHAM Parent Kids develop critical thinking skills and solve their own interpersonal conflicts with support and guidance from the staff. They learn the importance of respect, communication and working as a team. As we teach and reinforce these same values at home, I can see these skills emerging in my 7-year old son; and as a result I see increased self-confidence and greater independence.

  • Kaitlin Quinn-Stearns | Faculty

    Kaitlin Quinn-StearnsDirector of Admissions & AdministrationHistory/AP Capstone Instructor < Back Kaitlin Quinn-Stearns Director of Admissions & Administration History/AP Capstone Instructor Kaitlin Quinn-Stearns grew up in New Hampshire and began teaching in 2007 in Massachusetts. Throughout her career, Kaitlin has focused on best teaching practices, relevant curriculum development, and igniting a passion for learning in her students. She has made it her goal to create student centered classrooms that focus on student interest, inquiry, research, literacy and critical thinking. When not in the classroom or focusing on her administrative roles at 2nd Nature Academy, Kaitlin spends her time with her husband and three young children, teaching yoga classes, working out, or curling up with a good book. Education Pursuing Post-Graduate Certificate in School Management and Leadership from Harvard University Master of Arts in Teaching History (focus on Curriculum Design and Instruction) from Rivier University Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies Education, 5-12 from Rivier University Work Experience 2022-Present Director of Admissions & Administration at Nature’s Pathways at 2nd Nature Academy and 2nd Nature Academy Elementary, Middle, & High School AP Research teacher at 2nd Nature Academy High School 2019-2022 Deputy Head of School at 2nd Nature Academy Elementary, Middle, & High School AP Seminar teacher at 2nd Nature Academy High School 2018-2022 Director of Curriculum Design at Nature’s Pathways at 2nd Nature Academy and 2nd Nature Academy Elementary, Middle, & High School Middle and High School Humanities teacher at 2nd Nature Academy Elementary, Middle, & High School 2015-2017 History teacher (grades 9-12) and Teacher Leader at Murdock High School (Winchendon, MA) 2012-2015 History teacher (grades 9-12) at North Middlesex Regional High School (Townsend, MA) 2007-2012 History teacher (grades 9-12) at Lunenburg High School (Lunenburg, MA)

  • Kelly Santos | Faculty

    Kelly SantosSubstitute < Back Kelly Santos Substitute Kelly grew up in Tyngsboro, MA, not far from 2nd Nature Academy. Today, she lives in Hudson, NH with her husband and two children, who have attended 2nd Nature Academy since 2021. Kelly began substituting at the Academy in January 2023. She enjoys the variety substituting offers and getting to spend time with each student. Kelly also works as an Ambassador for the Children's Scholarship Fund NH and is a member of its Parent and Education Service Provider Advisory Commission, providing recommendations about implementing, administering, and improving the EFA program. When not working, Kelly spends time caring for her stepmother-in-law who's battling cancer, advocating for children in NH, assisting with her husband's businesses, and relaxing with family and friends. Education Associate Degree in American Sign Language from Northern Essex Community College Pursuing LETRS Certification (scheduled completion June 2025) Work Experience 2023-Present Substitute teacher (K-12) at 2nd Nature Academy 2013-2016 Move-in Coordinator for Saab Residence at D’youville Life & Wellness Community 2008-2013 Owner at XtraHands Home Organizing 2001-2008 Education Portfolio Specialist at Kronos Incorporated

  • High School Highlights | 2nd Nature Academy

    At SNA High School, you're more than just a number. Top of Page Quick Facts Independent Study AP Courses AP Research Oral Defense PCCM Paths Senior Spotlights WHERE YOU'RE MORE THAN JUST A NUMBER (BUT HERE ARE SOME NUMBERS & OTHER FACTS) Graduation Rate: 100% 92% of college acceptances in 2023 included merit scholarship awards, totaling $640,000 1 of 5 schools in NH to offer AP Capstone program (Seminar & Research) Above average AP Seminar scores ( SNA: 3.4 | NH - 3.15 | Global - 3.19) Leadership roles on campus (Student Government, Service Learning Project design & implementation, school-wide community building) Personalized College & Career Mapping (PCCM) Program Early College Courses through Nashua Community College Community college courses offered for MA/out-of-state students 1st Place Winners of 2023 Community Changemaker Challenge (sponsored by UNH Sustainability Institute) Flexible class scheduling to allow differentiated student experiences Despite minimal emphasis on standardized testing, our students scored in the 87th percentile on S.A.T. results Quick Facts GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY COURSES Our Guided Independent Study courses offer high school students the opportunity to explore areas of interest in conjunction with field study and internship experience. Additionally, students will work closely with an advisor each week to help strengthen certain skills, such as organization, time and project management, study skills, etc. This advisor will collaborate with the supervising teacher and cafe chef to ensure that students are meeting all internship expectations. All Independent Studies highlighted below were selected and designed by students, in cooperation with instructors and mentors. These opportunities are available at SNA, as well as that which you dream up! EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION Students participating in this internship opportunity will create and implementing classroom activities following emergent curriculum, participate in the daily activities in an early childhood/childcare setting, and receive both positive and constructive feedback from center teachers and directors. This course is intended for students interested in pursuing a career in early childhood education. 2nd Nature Academy High School students who participate in this course are responsible for designing, creating and implementing a semester-long project related to a relevant issue they identify in the early childhood setting. Independent Study ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) COURSES Advanced Placement (AP) is a program in the United States and Canada created by the College Board which offers college-level curricula and examinations to high school students. American colleges and universities may grant placement and course credit to students who obtain high scores on the examinations. Students at SNA will be offered the option of taking the following courses for AP credit; grade point averages will be weighted accordingly. Course content will be delivered using a variety of methods that adhere to our SNA educational philosophy. 2023 AP RESEARCH PRESENTATION & ORAL DEFENSE In AP Research, year two of the AP Capstone Program, "students are required to design, plan, and implement a yearlong, in-depth study or investigation in an area of personal interest through a chosen or designed inquiry method and develop a well-reasoned argument based on the evidence collected in an academic paper of 4,000-5,000 words. As a culmination of their research, students deliver (using appropriate media) a presentation and orally defend their research design, approach, and findings (AP Research Course and Exam Description)." On Friday, April 28, 2023, AP Research students presented to a panel composed of members of our school community: Rocio Rosales, PhD, Jose Martinez, MS, and Michael Varraso, Esq. Students and panelists engaged in an oral defense session, as well as a more casual question and answer session following the performance tasks. We would like to say a special thank you to our panelists for their time and enthusiasm, as well to Rambling House Food & Gathering for their generosity in providing their space and refreshments for this student milestone. AP Courses PCCM Paths AP Research Oral Defense PCCM PERSONALIZED COLLEGE & CAREER MAPPING Each SNA high school student is on an educational track as unique as they are. We recognize that there are many paths our students can embark on after graduation, including college, university, career, or more. Our Personalized College & Career Mapping (PCCM) program is designed to set our students up for success. Senior Spotlights Class of 2023 College Acceptances University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Merit scholarships awarded: $640,000 University of New Hampshire University of Massachusetts Amherst University of Vermont t Worcester Polytechnic Insitute MAPPING YOUR PATH With the guidance of your teachers, advisors, and/or mentors, you will design and refer to your path plan throughout your high school career. Nothing in your PCCM path is set in stone. Rather, it is there to help you get where you want to go, even if it changes along the way! passions skills learning styles educational aspirations career aspirations hobbies SENIOR SPOTLIGHTS Success is defined as, "an accomplishment of an aim or purpose." Your PCCM path, and its many should be as unique as you! We've highlighted a few of our current and former seniors to give you an example of the many diverse PCCM tracks each student embarks on. Class of 2025 JADEN Creative & inclusive with a social justice mindset COMING SOON Class of 2023 RONAN Innovative & collaborative critical thinker Arrival at SNA: A Newtonian since preschool PCCM Path: College-focused PBL Impact: Deftly c ollaborates and contributes to individual and group successes Part of a SNA team that won 3rd place in a statewide contest for design of New England Electric Bus System (NEEBS) Drafted proposed legislation (J.A.R.S. Act) with his peers to strengthen regulations of PFAS in local drinking water Beyond SNA: Attending UNH College of Engineering & Physical Sciences in fall 2023 Class of 2022 RYAN Inventive mindset with an entrepreneurial spirit Arrival at SNA: Transferred in the 10th grade in the search for an environment and community that would realize his full potential PCCM Path: Career-focused Guided Independent Study: Animal Husbandry with a Focus in Poultry , including fie ld work at Julie's Happy Hens at Trow Heritage Farm (Mont Vernon, NH) PBL Impact: Designed dual-purpose products to address the needs of underserved communities. Part of a SNA team that w on 3rd place in a statewide contest for design of New England Electric Bus System (NEEBS) Designed a rainwater collection system using biomimicry called Pinecone Water Collection System (T.P.W.C.S.) Beyond SNA: Graduated into full-time job in desired field CLASS OF 2023 The journey continues for the !

  • Curriculum | 2nd Nature Academy

    2nd Nature Academy's unique and original educational model combines elements of skills-based curricula, Project Based Learning, transdisciplinary studies, and whole child philosophy. Review these introductions to curricular areas of learning at SNA, including mathematics, visual arts, music education, foreign language education (Spanish and Mandarin), humane education, service learning, and the humanities. CURRICULUM an integrated approach Our unique and original educational model combines elements of skills-based curricula, Project Based Learning, transdisciplinary studies, and whole child philosophy. Below, you will find an introduction to curricular areas of learning at SNA. Mathematics Foreign Languages The Arts Community Connections MATHEMATICS Mathematics 2ND NATURE ACADEMY MATH MANTRA + Math is meaningful + Mindset matters + All students can be successful in math + There can be multiple ways to solve a problem An Introduction While math can feel “big,” it should always be approachable. Math should be hands-on, collaborative, and explorative. After all, it is everywhere we look in the natural world and its real-world applications are far more innumerable and tangible than we often give the subject credit for. 2nd Nature Academy strives to break down the barriers that have been erected in the minds of too many learners, instead encouraging all students to approach math with open minds, teaching them how to think critically, and challenging them to make connections across disciplines, as well as the world at large. It is our goal to instill in all learners an enthusiasm for math, to develop growth mindsets , and establish positive math class norms. Moreover, we encourage all parents/guardians to consider the critical role they play in their child’s mindset and achievement in math . Elementary School Program: Think Math! Think Math! builds on children’s innate desire to make sense of the world through the implementation of puzzles, investigations, and games. Beyond skill development, learners are provided the tools to build strong mathematical habits of mind. With a basis in developmental psycholinguistics and child language, cognitive science, child development, and math teaching/learning research, this program was rigorously tested in classrooms and is supported by the National Science Foundation. Middle School Program: Core Curriculum by MidSchool Math Research has shown that this multidimensional, growth mindset curriculum provides a much more enriching math experience and results in deeper student engagement, excitement, and success. It teaches students to think like mathematicians through providing opportunities for developing confidence and solving rigorous challenges. A healthy dose of humor goes a long way in appealing to middle school audiences. Our middle school math teacher is trained in Stanford Math Professor and program co-designer Jo Boaler’s Mathematical Mindsets approach. Professor Boaler is an advocate for bringing about higher levels of student engagement and achievement in mathematics. To learn more about the program, we invite you to read this Letter to Parents and Guardians from MidSchoolMath . High School Disciplines taught: Algebra I & II Financial Literacy Geometry Trigonometry Pre-Calculus Calculus Through a PBL approach, students will organically embrace learning techniques that respond to their desire to explore the mathematical world around them. This, in turn, enables students to ask questions, engage in multidimensional activities, and explore real-world scenarios with authentic curiosity. Each lesson/unit follows a five phase process: Immersive Experience Student Discussion Teacher-Directed Lesson Skill Practice Ongoing Project The Arts THE ARTS VISUAL ARTS At 2nd Nature Academy, we believe in art’s power to provide students with an alternative language with which to communicate, create meaning, and express themselves in a safe space where open minds are free to wander. Visual arts education at 2nd Nature Academy encourages self-expression, inspires creativity, builds confidence, and helps develops a sense of individual identity in each student. By incorporating inspirational art stimuli, students are engaged by and exposed to the design, color, form, rhythm, texture, and pattern in the world around them. Through learning the essential skills to be successful in this new age, students are provided developmentally-appropriate instruction on art techniques, materials, and history. Exposure and experience with arts allows students to create, design, generate, and compose new ideas, further developing the creative thinking inherent in developing minds, which is at the core of a 2nd Nature Academy education. Moreover, creating meaning through art can help children develop vocabulary, complex thinking, and keen observation, as well as hone innovative problem-solving skills. STUDENT WORK GALLERY MUSIC EDUCATION Music is a very powerful thing. It brings people together. It educates. And it is a catalyst for growth. Music, like all art, is essential to any education. Music education at 2nd Nature Academy promotes creativity, confidence, social skills, and artistic expression. Musical studies at SNA focus on learning a variety of modes of self-expression and identity exploration. As a community, we learn about a multitude of instruments, including hand percussion, drums, piano, ukuleles, and more. Musical education supports student development in the following areas, including but not limited to: critical thinking and listening, problem-solving, self and social confidence, artistic independence. SNA ROCK BAND The SNA Upper School Rock Band was founded in the fall of 2021 by a group of high school students. It has since grown to include students in both middle and high school. Band members practice weekly with the occasional appearance at school events, such as high school graduation. We are looking forward to expanding performance opportunities in the 2023-2024 school year. Foreign Languages FOREIGN LANGUAGES SPANISH & MANDARIN The 2nd Nature Academy foreign language curriculum includes both Spanish and Mandarin Chinese, beginning in pre-kindergarten. Mandarin claims the top spot as the world’s most commonly spoken language, followed by Spanish and then English. By teaching both Mandarin and Spanish we are preparing our children for a global economy. We are training our students to become cross-culturally competent adults who will be successful in handling the challenges that globalization can present. Finally, students who are culturally and linguistically prepared to effectively communicate both abroad and in a pluralistic American society have greater changes for success. THE IMPACT Studies indicate that there are many cognitive benefits to learning a foreign language. In addition to impacting student’s linguistic abilities, second language learning has been shown to increase creative abilities as well. Furthermore, the younger children are when they begin to learn a foreign language, the greater the impact. If children begin learning a foreign language in early childhood, they will exhibit greater intellectual benefits over those children who do not learn a foreign language or begin learning later. Typically, American schools do not begin teaching foreign languages until middle school, when children have passed the critical period for language acquisition. The National Standards for Foreign Language Education in the 21st Century encompass the five C’s of essential foreign language education: Communication Culture Connections Comparisons Community The foreign language curriculum at 2nd Nature Academy embraces a wide range of communication skills recommended by the American Council for Teaching Foreign Languages. These standards provide a vision of what students should know and be able to do with other languages. In order to attain these standards, we provide a foreign language program that provides rich curricular experiences in order to develop positive attitudes and excitement toward learning foreign languages. español Spanish 汉语 Mandarin STUDENT FOREIGN LANGUAGE SPEAKERS IN ACTION Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Now Playing Welcome, Ziyu Li! 02:02 Play Video Now Playing Por cuatro esquinitas de nada (Four Little Corners) by Jérôme Ruillier 02:43 Play Video COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS Community HUMANE EDUCATION Our humane education curriculum is designed to instill respect and responsibility for fellow humans, animals, plants, and the environment. By nurturing compassion for living things, we develop conscientious, actively contributing members of society. Everything on our planet is interconnected and it is through our stewardship that we are able to be a part of that pattern. Humans not only rely on one another, but also non-human animals and our natural environment for resources, food, service, and companionship. In return, it is our responsibility to care for each other, as well as providing the animals in our care with quality food and forage, access to clean water, medical care, shelter, room to roam, and companionship. It is likewise imperative that we understand the importance of caring for our environment, so that the next generations can enjoy it. In addition, our humane education program encompasses: Organic gardening Environmental science Sustainable farming & animal care Service learning Character education Peer mentoring Classroom jobs & school economy Social justice education Healthy, high-performance campus with green buildings Critical thinking & problem-solving Constructive classroom management SERVICE LEARNING As part of our curriculum at 2nd Nature Academy, our school community participates in regular service learning projects. Service learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich learning experiences, engage children in civic involvement, promote responsibility, and strengthen communities. We encourage families to continue these valuable discussions at home. Over the course of a school year, family support is enlisted to assist us in preparing for these projects by purchasing items together with your child, donating to various charities, or contributing time to help coordinate and/or participating in service experiences. In order for the children to gain from these experiences, they must learn to recognize the community need and know the intended recipient of the service. Moreover, it is critical that they have active participation in service experiences and are provided time for meaningful reflection. Together, we can form truly meaningful experiences for your child and your family, our staff, and the community. Each year, the student body guides decision making about causes, events, and learning goals. Examples of past and continuing service learning traditions include: Ann M. Francke Memorial Ride benefiting Friends of Dartmouth Cancer Center Student-run hot dog sale with proceeds being used to select livestock donations to rural communities worldwide via Heifer International Christmas gift drive for sponsored mothers and children at Marguerite's Place, Inc. Water Walk to support Thank You Project's mission of building wells in rural Nigeria Clothing and hygienic products drive to support Catie's Closet Canned food drives to support the Nashua Soup Kitchen and Shelter Valentine cards for American troops with A Million Thanks Earth Day/Week spirit events coordinated by high school students to educate and encourage younger student population about environmental causes Student produced "Portraits of Courage" (interviews with and artistic portraits of local veterans) Student-driven "shoe cutting" party to produce denim shoes for SoleHope, which provides shoes for Ugandan people suffering from jiggers Fundraiser for and guest speaker event from Jhamtse Gatsal Children's Community in Indian Himalayas CURRENT PROJECTS Service Learning

  • Camp Lovewell: Counselors & Specialists

    Camp Lovewell at 2nd Nature Academy is seeking multiple counselor and specialist positions for its summer day camp. Camp Lovewell: Counselors & Specialists Seasonal About the job Camp Lovewell at 2nd Nature Academy is seeking several positions for its summer day camp program, which runs for 9 weeks throughout the summer (June 24-August 23) from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. CAMP COUNSELORS (GENERAL) camper supervision, assisting other staff members, enthusiastic participation in camp-wide activities LIFEGUARD following all camp and safety guidelines to ensure safe swimming/water activities at our saltwater pool and a freshwater pond, including kayaking supervision SPECIALISTS planning and implementation of related specialty activities, camper supervision, and enthusiastic participation in camp-wide activities Drama Low ropes/team building (training provided as needed) Archery Sports & field games Arts & Crafts APPLY NOW The ideal candidate The ideal candidate: enjoys working with kids. loves the outdoors. doesn't mind getting dirty. is reliable and responsible. has access to reliable transportation. Requirements Our accrediting body, American Camp Association (ACA), requires that all camp staff must be at least 16 years of age. Lifeguard: Certification from a nationally-recognized organization, such as American Red Cross Drama specialist: Experience in drama/performing arts Low Ropes/Team Building specialist: Current low ropes certification is preferred. However, we are willing to train. Archery specialist: Certification from a nationally-recognized organization, such as USA Archery Benefits Part-Time/Seasonal Employee discounts offered to Campus Cafe. Competitive benefits packages available for Full Time employees BACK TO ALL JOBS

  • Kindergarten

    Kindergarten $12,700

  • Ryan Slate | Faculty

    Ryan SlatePhysical Education After School Leader < Back Ryan Slate Physical Education After School Leader Ryan Slate was born and raised in Merrimack, NH. As a child, Ryan was an active member of the 2nd Nature Academy community, attending the Nature’s Pathways early childhood program, kindergarten at 2nd Nature Academy, and Camp Lovewell each summer. A lifelong athlete, he enjoyed playing multiple sports, including basketball and baseball. Ryan would go on to play varsity baseball for Merrimack High School, as well for the Daniel Webster College team. Ryan spent several years of his young adulthood exploring career paths. When he began working in the 2nd Nature Academy after school program, it became clear to Ryan and those around him that educating and working with children was his calling. Today, Ryan works with multiple ages at 2nd Nature Academy and as the Physical Education Teacher. In his spare time, Ryan enjoys hiking with his dog, Katara, and watching the Red Sox. Education Currently pursuing Early Childhood Education credits at Nashua Community College Criminal Justice at Daniel Webster College (2017) Work Experience 2020-Present Physical education teacher at 2nd Nature Academy 2020-2021 Assistant lower elementary teacher at 2nd Nature Academy 2019-2020 Assistant toddler teacher at Nature’s Pathways at 2nd Nature Academy 2018 Ran after school program at 2nd Nature Academy Assistant coach of Merrimack Middle School baseball team

  • Mission & Philosophy | 2nd Nature Academy

    2nd Nature Academy is a student-centered educational community that fosters inquiry, exploration, experience, and achievement. We develop well-rounded and independent critical thinkers who are able to create, communicate, collaborate, and conquer challenges, in order to contribute fully to society. Mission: 2nd Nature Academy is a student-centered educational community that fosters inquiry , exploration , experience , and achievement . We develop well-rounded and independent critical thinkers who are able to create , communicate , collaborate , and conquer challenges , in order to contribute fully to society. Vision Statement: Authentic engagement and lifelong success Pedagogical Goals To provide a student-centered learning environment that focuses on the whole student To embrace eight intelligence strengths as indicated by Dr. Howard Gardner of Harvard University To provide the fundamentals of education using inquiry based learning and multi-sensory instruction To foster an attitude of cultural appreciation To support physical, social, emotional and cognitive well-being To promote values and life skills such as responsibility, punctuality, consideration, understanding, altruism, and compassion To encourage an appreciation of our natural environment To develop an enthusiasm for learning and acquiring new skills Philosophy At 2nd Nature Academy Elementary, Middle, & High School, we foster a rigorous and responsive learning environment where students thrive, not simply survive, in their formative academic years. We encourage students to explore, inquire, collaborate, create, analyze, and solve relevant problems. Our unique and original educational model combines elements of skills-based curricula, Project Based Learning, transdisciplinary studies, and whole child philosophy. We maintain a low student to teacher ratio to allow teachers the flexibility to implement strategies for differentiated, individualized instruction and build positive relationships with students. Teachers set expectations for high standards and academic achievement while also supporting social emotional health and wellness for all students. Project Based Learning allows students to engage in collaborative exploration and work on authentic projects to solve complex, real-world challenges. Transdisciplinary studies integrate the perspectives of multiple disciplines in the problem-solving process. Students learn through questioning, investigating, researching, reasoning, comparing, and reflecting. They demonstrate their skills and knowledge by creating genuine products and presentations for real audiences. Whole child educational philosophy ensures that students are healthy, safe, engaged, supported, and challenged in school. We encourage students to work collaboratively in both small and large groups, thus promoting a balance between a sense of self and belonging to the group. By working together, they develop important interpersonal and communication skills such as dialogue, negotiation, compromise, empathy, self-control, problem solving, and conflict resolution. Each student has the opportunity for their voice to be heard. These practices have resulted in a tight-knit school community, further strengthened by participation in student facilitated service learning projects as well as events and activities on campus.

  • Application Process | Nature's Pathways at 2nd Nature Academy

    Learn about the Nature's Pathways at 2nd Nature Academy early childhood education application process. EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION APPLICATION PROCESS SUBMIT INQUIRY Please note that all Application & Enrollment steps must be followed to ensure enrollment. Although there may be classroom availability for an immediate start date (i.e., within a couple of weeks), we typically recommend beginning the process at least several months prior to the desired start date. Children may be granted admission to Nature’s Pathways at 2nd Nature Academy upon completion of the following steps and review of the application materials. Admissions is based on availability and compatibility to the program. Prospective Families Prior to beginning the application process, we strongly encourage all applying families to familiarize themselves with: An Introduction Emergent Curriculum Application & Enrollment Process Submit an inquiry with our online form . A representative from our Admissions Department will reach out via the email provided in the inquiry form with additional application materials (if applicable) and to schedule an introductory phone call. 01 Submit an initial inquiry application Enrollment is not approved until admissions have been officially granted by the Director of Early Childhood Education and the registration process* has been completed. 03 Admissions decision Join the Director of Early Childhood Education on a tour of our facilities. 02 Tour the center No application will be considered complete and ready for review until all required steps are completed and all elements are submitted. Receipt of application/admissions materials must be confirmed by the Director of Early Childhood Education. Requirements *Registration Process The registration process includes: scheduling and completing an introductory phone call followed by a facilities tour, submitting all registration materials after acceptance, remitting all necessary deposit payments, scheduling days of care with the Director, and scheduling an official start date with the Director. An onboarding visit day with the group the child will be joining may also be required. A registration deposit is necessary to ensure the child's spot. The deposit includes: Registration fee First month’s tuition payment Deposits for infants who are yet to be born may not be submitted more than 6 months prior to the projected due date. Finally, the Director of Early Childhood Education will work with you to confirm a schedule of care and determine an official start date. 2nd Nature Academy is free from discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religious creed, gender identity and expression, national or ethnic origin, caste, sex, sexual orientation, age, genetic information, disability, or any other category protected by law (also known as membership in a "protected class").

NEASC Accreditation
MISSION

2nd Nature Academy is a student-centered educational community that fosters inquiry, exploration, experience, and achievement. We develop well-rounded and independent critical thinkers who are able to create, communicate, collaborate, and conquer challenges, in order to contribute fully to society.

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2ND NATURE ACADEMY
EARLY CHILDHOOD | ELEMENTARY SCHOOL | MIDDLE SCHOOL | HIGH SCHOOL
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