FAQ

Like any educational model, this approach is not one-size-fits-all.

Children who tend to thrive in our program:

• Enjoy hands-on, experiential learning outdoors in all weather 
• Respond well to calm structure and clear expectations
• Cooperate kindly with other children 
• Have a sense of adventure 

Families seeking highly competitive, test-driven, or mainly  indoor instruction may prefer a more traditional setting.

There are many wonderful outdoor and nature-based programs, and families often explore a range of options.

Many outdoor programs spend most days in the same natural location and emphasize free exploration, with formal academics introduced more gradually. Traditional schools, by contrast, are primarily indoors and follow age-based pacing.

The Nature Bus School combines:

• Outdoor and community-based learning
• New environments throughout the week
• Strong academics in reading, writing, and math
• Wonder-based literacy
• Integrated mixed age, project-based learning in science, STEAM, social studies, art, music, environmental stewardship
• Readiness-based mastery learning 
• The same core teachers year after year
• Strong connections to local people, places, and real-world

This model offers structure without pressure, novelty without chaos, and academics without boredom.

No. Outdoor learning at The Nature Bus School is structured, guided, and aligned with clear academic goals.

While learning environments change, expectations for growth in reading, writing, and math remain consistent. Instruction is intentionally planned and thoughtfully guided each day.

We use ongoing, formative assessment methods, including:

• Teacher observation
• Work samples and projects
• Narrative feedback and milestone tracking

This allows us to document academic and developmental growth as it happens, rather than relying solely on standardized testing. Families receive regular insight into their child’s progress and readiness.

The Nature Bus is a school bus designed specifically for transporting young children safely and comfortably. It is not a converted van or passenger vehicle — it is a Micro Bird G5 school bus, manufactured to meet school transportation standards.

Key safety features include:

• Galvanized steel body frame with reinforced side impact barriers
• Heavy-gauge steel construction that protects the passenger compartment
• Insulated walls and roof bows to reduce noise and improve comfort
• Wide interior and high headroom designed for children
• Dual rear wheels for added stability
• Age-appropriate seating with 5-point seat belts and restraints
• Standard electric entrance door designed for school use

Operational safety includes:

• CDL-qualified driver
• Daily attendance tracking and headcounts
• CPR and First Aid–certified staff
• Small-group supervision during transitions

Families who would like to review technical details may view the full manufacturer specification sheet on our website.

Drop-off takes place at the Greene County Farmers Market between 8:15 and 8:30 AM.
The Nature Bus pulls away promptly at 8:30 AM.

Parents bring their child into the market area and are asked to use the bathroom before boarding. Children are signed in, greeted by Suzanne and Alaurah, and helped safely into their seats. Mornings are intentionally calm and welcoming.

Pick-up is from the same place as above.

Yes. Children must be fully potty trained to attend The Nature Bus School.
This includes being able to communicate bathroom needs and completely manage toileting independently.

Families provide:

• Weather-appropriate outdoor clothing
• A healthy lunch, snacks, and drinks

The school provides:

• High-quality reading, writing, and math materials
• Montessori-style math and literacy resources
• Journals, art supplies, and project materials
• Field tools such as backpacks, magnifying glasses, binoculars, and exploration equipment

We intentionally invest in durable, beautiful materials that support curiosity and hands-on learning.

Families receive a weekly email on Fridays with a summary of the week, learning highlights, and photos.

We are thoughtful and discreet with photography, capturing candid moments without interrupting children’s focus or learning. We will use the photos for advertising purposes; we can blur out faces upon request.

We review the needs of all enrolled children before the school year begins and determine whether a nut-free policy is required.

Families are informed of all food guidelines in advance, and we work closely together to ensure a safe and inclusive environment.

Children must stay home if they have:

• A fever
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Significant respiratory symptoms such as persistent coughing or heavy nasal discharge

We follow common-sense illness guidelines to protect the health of the community.

We operate in a wide range of weather with appropriate clothing, planning, and clear routines. Time outdoors in varying conditions is an important part of our program, and we prepare children thoughtfully for it.

If road conditions are unsafe for the bus to operate, the school will close for the day. Families will be notified as early as possible when closures are necessary.

To ensure clarity and consistency, enrolled families receive a Weather and Safety Plan outlining how we approach rain, cold, heat, wind, and other conditions, as well as the criteria we use for closures or adjustments. This helps set clear expectations and allows families to feel confident and prepared throughout the year.

No. The Nature Bus School is a full-time, Monday–Friday program.

Children thrive most with consistent routines, relationships, and expectations. Regular attendance supports emotional security and steady academic growth.