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Student Programs
Blackwood student programs are based on the concept of Erdkinder created by Maria Montessori. Students explore the natural web of life and to develop a healthy, respectful relationship with nature in a natural classroom environment. Blackwood offers students a bridge between the indoor school classroom and the outdoor classroom. Students ages 10 to 16 work as an integrated member in cooperation with nature, learning how to best utilize and preserve the natural integrity of the land. Projects include growing organic crops and harvesting them, water systems, nature observations, soil analysis and testing, creating butterfly gardens, wilderness skills and tracking, and building trails and fences. Students learn about native Texas plants, medicinal plants, and how to use them. There is emphasis on Texas history, math, chemistry and mapping. They even learn the basics of small business ownership. After crops are harvested, students share the fruits of their labor at school. Blackwood provides opportunities to learn many things about the full circle of life. Primarily it teaches about the importance of natural communities. Schools are encouraged to participate in this unique and innovative learning environment and make it an integral part of their curriculum. Curriculum guides are provided to teachers, and additional days may be provided for specific needs. Customized programs can be created to meet specific needs. “One of Cath’s gifts is that she knows how to harness everyone’s special ability. The way she can maintain the balance between work and play, people and the land is unbelievable. Cath makes us feel like we are equals, and that is just one of the many things Blackwood has to offer.” ~ Travis Taylor, student “Blackwood is where I learned the greatest concentration of truly important things. I learned to work, solve problems, apply knowledge, learn from a situation and my surroundings, and complete a project. Out of this comes an openness of spirit, and an understanding of survival, not only wilderness survival, but survival on a planetary level.” ~ Jeremy Greene, student “My son’s Blackwood experience was one of vital importance in his life. Possibly it is the one most important thing that kept him heading in a positive direction from age twelve to fourteen. The amount of learning that takes place at Blackwood was amazing, and it was true interdisciplinary learning at its best!” “As an educator and as a parent, I am very pleased that my child has the opportunity to participate at Blackwood Land Institute. Cath Conlon provides inspired and patient committed leadership for the students and the staff. With her thoughtful and well-organized guidance, students have the opportunity to experience relationships with the land and with one another based on a system of ecological and interpersonal values.” ~ Amy Paris, Ph.D. |
