Our Roots
Meadowlark Schools was founded on the belief that children thrive when given the freedom to explore, play, and connect with nature. We recognized that today's children often have limited opportunities for unstructured outdoor play and hands-on learning experiences. Our program was created to address this gap, providing a space where children can develop holistically through meaningful engagement with their environment.
Young children who attend Meadowlark Schools receive the tools and support they need for healthy development. All activities are carefully designed to nurture the emotional, intellectual, and physical growth of our children. Through stimulating situations and hands-on learning opportunities, children are free to develop into bright young minds with a love for learning.
Our
Mission
We believe that children thrive in an environment that values their uniqueness while providing support and opportunities to grow emotionally, socially, and creatively. By building on each child's strengths, interests, and curiosities, we guide each child to explore the world around them as well as develop new abilities and form close relationships.
At Meadowlark Schools, we are committed to:
- Providing children with daily opportunities to connect with the natural world
- Honoring childhood as a unique and valuable stage of human development
- Supporting children's innate desire to learn through play and exploration
- Building strong partnerships with families and our community
- Creating spaces where children feel safe taking appropriate risks
- Fostering a deep appreciation for healthy food and sustainable living
Our
Approach
In traditional educational settings, children often spend much of their day sitting still and following structured activities. At Meadowlark, we recognize that children—especially young boys-– need to experience vigorous physical play to support healthy development.
Our approach embraces:
- Risky Play: We provide opportunities for children to climb, balance, and navigate challenges that build confidence and physical competence.
- All-Weather Outdoor Time: Children at Meadowlark play outside in rain, shine, and various weather conditions, developing resilience and a connection to natural cycles.
- Child-Led Learning: We follow children's interests and questions, using these as launching points for deeper exploration and discovery.
- Natural Materials: Our learning environments feature natural elements like wood, stone, plants, and other materials that engage children's senses.
Research consistently shows that this approach to early childhood education leads to stronger academic outcomes, better self-regulation, and improved social skills when children enter traditional school settings.
Our Growing
Vision
What began as a single campus has grown into a broader vision for nature-based education. We're expanding with our new Stockton campus and developing a 50-acre farm property in Hollister as well. This property will feature organic farming operations, animal husbandry, and outdoor learning spaces where children can experience agricultural life firsthand.
In the near future, the farm will supply our schools with fresh, organic produce and provide immersive learning opportunities for children from all our campuses. This expansion represents our commitment to connecting children with the sources of their food and the natural cycles that sustain us.
Recognition
Meadowlark Schools has been voted "Best of San Benito County" for four consecutive years (2021-2025). This recognition reflects our commitment to quality and our strong relationships with the families we serve. While our Hollister campus maintains a waiting list, we're excited to bring this sought-after educational approach to more communities.
Let Your Child Thrive at Meadowlark
At Meadowlark Schools, we are dedicated to nurturing the whole child through meaningful, nature-based learning. Our unique approach encourages exploration, creativity, and a deep connection with the natural world - laying the foundation for confident, curious, and resilient learners.
We warmly invite you to schedule a tour of our campus and meet the dedicated educators who bring our mission to life each day. Come experience firsthand the thoughtful environments, engaging programs, and supportive community that set Meadowlark apart.