Camp Adventure Forest Academy

Explore Camp Adventure Forest School Academy

About Us

Camp Adventure is an environmental learning facility that offers year-round programs for schools, families, and community organizations. From field trips and team-building experiences to leadership development and outdoor education, our mission is to inspire growth, connection, and a love of learning through nature.

The Forest Academy at Camp Adventure is a full-day, school-year program currently serving a PreK/Kindergarten classroom.

For the 2026–2027 school year, the Forest Academy plans to transition to a combined K/1 classroom as our students continue to grow.

Looking ahead, we are thoughtfully exploring future growth. One option under discussion for the 2027–2028 school year includes opening two classrooms at Camp Adventure: a PreK/K classroom and a 1/2 classroom. Any future expansion will be guided by enrollment, staffing, and the needs of our families.

At every stage, our focus remains the same—providing a full-day learning experience that blends outdoor education with Montessori-inspired practices to support curiosity, independence, and a love of learning in every child.

Discover the Forest School Philosophy

At Camp Adventure Forest School, we believe children thrive when they are immersed in nature. Our forest school embraces child-led exploration, hands-on learning, and the freedom to develop at their own pace. Outdoor classrooms inspire creativity, build resilience, and foster a deep connection to the natural world.

How Montessori Guides Our Approach

The Montessori method is the foundation of our forest school. Using Maria Montessori's principles, we integrate practical life skills, sensorial exploration, and individualized learning into outdoor activities. Children develop independence and confidence as they engage with nature’s endless learning opportunities.

This blend of forest school and Montessori education creates a holistic environment where children grow socially, emotionally, and academically—all while cultivating a lifelong love for learning and the environment.

Constructive Triangle Work

Students engage in purposeful, hands-on work in our outdoor mud kitchen, using natural materials to explore creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. Experiences like this reflect our Montessori-inspired approach, where learning happens through meaningful interaction with the environment—rain or shine.

At Forest Academy, students spend time outdoors every day, in all seasons. Learning happens through real experiences—exploring, observing, creating, and problem-solving in nature. This holistic approach supports the whole child and connects academics, movement, and the environment in meaningful ways.

Students explore the concept of sinking and floating through hands-on work at the pond. What began as a simple observation lesson naturally expanded into a three-part experience—designing and building boats, testing how materials float, and making thoughtful changes to improve speed and stability. This kind of child-led exploration reflects our Montessori-inspired approach, where curiosity guides deeper learning.

PreK/K Program

Daily Rhythm

A Day at Forest Academy

At Forest Academy, each day is designed to provide children with the comfort of routine, the joy of discovery, and the freedom to learn through Montessori-inspired practices and meaningful experiences in nature. While we follow a consistent daily rhythm, we remain flexible and responsive to weather, student interests, and individual needs.

We aim to begin each day outdoors whenever possible; however, during colder months when snowsuits and extra layers are needed, mornings often begin indoors, with outdoor learning taking place later in the day.

Daily Rhythm

Arrival & Morning Start (8:30 AM)
Students begin the day with a calm and welcoming start. This time allows for arrival, connection, and preparation for learning. Morning routines may take place indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather and seasonal needs.

Morning Circle
Students gather as a community to build relationships, share observations, and review the day ahead. Teachers introduce Montessori lessons, new materials, and skills from our Science of Reading curriculum during this time.

Montessori Work Cycle
Children engage in independent and small-group work at their own pace. Lessons are individualized and hands-on, allowing students to build skills through meaningful practice. PreK and Kindergarten students may work separately at times to focus on age-appropriate skills, then come back together as a whole group.

Lunch & Social Play
Meals are shared together, followed by unstructured social play. Outdoor play occurs in all types of weather and supports social-emotional growth and peer relationships.

Outdoor Learning & Exploration
Students spend extended time outdoors each day. During colder months, outdoor learning typically takes place after lunch, once students are prepared for winter weather. Outdoor experiences may include nature exploration, science investigations, building projects, creative play, and hands-on academic learning connected to classroom lessons.

Afternoon Work Cycle
After outdoor exploration, students return to focused indoor work. This time allows children to apply what they have learned, practice independence, and engage in creative or academic projects.

Closing Circle & Dismissal (2:30 PM)
The day concludes with reflection, gratitude, and celebration of learning before students prepare to head home.

Family Partnership
Forest Academy values strong partnerships with families. Parents are welcome to volunteer throughout the year by supporting activities such as cooking days, sharing a skill or interest, or assisting with special projects. Our goal is to maintain open communication and create a welcoming environment where families feel connected, informed, and confident in their child’s learning experience

Why Families Choose Forest Academy

A consistent daily routine that helps children feel safe, confident, and ready to learn.
Time outdoors every day, in all seasons, learning through real experiences in nature.
A Montessori-inspired approach that builds independence, focus, and a love of learning.
A healthy balance of academics, play, and social-emotional growth.
A welcoming community that values strong family partnerships and involvement.

Montessori in Nature

At Camp Adventure, Montessori principles guide our Forest Academy program. Instead of limiting learning to a traditional classroom, we extend those principles throughout our entire camp. At Forest Academy, the whole Camp Adventure property is our classroom. Learning can happen anywhere, at any time, through meaningful experiences in nature.

By using the natural environment as both inspiration and learning material, children engage in hands-on, real-world learning that supports independence, curiosity, and a deep connection to their surroundings.

Montessori in Nature Includes:

Practical Life Skills
Children practice real-world skills through everyday experiences such as caring for outdoor spaces, pouring water, gathering natural materials, building, and using age-appropriate tools. These activities build independence, coordination, and confidence.

Sensorial Exploration
Nature provides rich opportunities for children to explore their senses—feeling different textures, listening to natural sounds, observing changes in weather, and noticing scents found outdoors. These experiences help children make sense of the world around them.

Academic Learning in Nature
Academic concepts are woven naturally into the outdoor environment. Math is explored through measuring, counting, and building with natural materials, while literacy comes to life through storytelling, observation, and meaningful conversations inspired by students’ experiences outdoors.

Learning at Forest Academy is flexible, child-centered, and responsive—allowing lessons to unfold wherever curiosity leads, whether that’s by the pond, on the trails, or in the woods.

Benefits for Young Learners

The PreK/K program at Forest Academy supports the whole child—socially, emotionally, academically, and physically. Through a blend of Montessori-inspired learning, daily time outdoors, and real-world experiences, children learn by doing, exploring, and engaging with their environment. This approach builds independence, confidence, and a genuine love of learning.

Key Benefits Include:

Social & Emotional Growth
Small-group learning, shared routines, collaborative outdoor play, and community experiences help children build communication skills, emotional awareness, and self-confidence.

Hands-On Academic Learning
Children explore early literacy, math, and science through meaningful, hands-on experiences—building, experimenting, observing, and problem-solving in ways that support early learning standards.

Real-World Learning Through Field Trips
Students typically participate in one field trip each month. These experiences extend classroom learning into the community and align with Montessori principles by offering hands-on, real-world connections that deepen understanding and curiosity.

Physical Development
Daily outdoor movement supports gross and fine motor development as children climb, balance, dig, build, and explore their environment.

Independence & Curiosity
Montessori-inspired practices encourage children to make choices, take responsibility, and follow their interests—laying the foundation for lifelong learning.

A Connection to Nature
Spending time outdoors every day helps children develop respect for the environment, adaptability, and a sense of wonder about the natural world.

Typical Day

A Typical Day at Forest Academy

At Forest Academy, children experience a predictable daily rhythm with the flexibility to adjust for weather, seasons, and individual student needs. Our schedule blends Montessori-inspired learning, daily time outdoors, and hands-on experiences that support the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.

Daily Schedule Overview

8:30–9:00 | Arrival & Transition
Students arrive by bus or drop-off and are warmly welcomed by staff. This time allows children to settle in, connect with peers, and prepare for the day ahead.

We aim to begin each day outdoors when possible.
During colder months, mornings typically begin indoors to allow time for winter clothing routines and smooth transitions.

9:00–11:30 | Montessori Work Cycle
This extended work period is the heart of our day. During the Montessori work cycle, students choose from a wide variety of shelf work that supports all areas of Montessori learning, including:

Practical Life
Language
Math
Sensorial
Geography and Cultural Studies

Children engage in purposeful, hands-on work at their own pace. Teachers observe, guide, and support learning throughout the work cycle. At times, teachers may give Montessori presentations to introduce new materials or skills.

Work is student-led and developmentally appropriate
Snack is available during the work cycle, allowing students to listen to their bodies and practice independence
Teachers may occasionally pull individual students or small groups from the work cycle to support specific learning goals, skill development, or individual needs

11:30–12:00 | Lunch
Students eat lunch together, building independence, responsibility, and social skills.

12:30–1:00 | Recess
Unstructured outdoor play allows children to move, explore, and build friendships while developing physical strength, coordination, and problem-solving skills.

1:00–1:30 | Outdoor Learning & Exploration
Students engage in hands-on outdoor learning experiences connected to science, literacy, math, and thematic studies. This time may shift slightly depending on weather conditions or clothing transitions, but outdoor learning remains a daily priority whenever possible.

1:00–2:00 | Afternoon Montessori Work Cycle
Students return to focused indoor Montessori work, continuing with shelf work, creative projects, or collaborative learning experiences.

2:00–2:15 | Closing Circle & Bus Dismissal
Students reflect on their day, share highlights, and prepare for dismissal. Bus riders depart during this time.

2:15–2:30 | Clean-Up, Reflection & End of Day
Students help care for their environment, reflect on their learning, and end the day with a sense of accomplishment.

Learning Beyond the Schedule

Forest Academy does not follow a traditional “specials” schedule, such as art, music, or PE, on set days. Instead, learning is integrated throughout the day in meaningful, real-life ways.

Rather than rotating through separate classes, students experience rich, hands-on learning through projects, outdoor exploration, and authentic experiences that naturally blend art, movement, science, literacy, and creativity together.

Throughout the year, we intentionally invite parents, community partners, and local experts to be part of the learning experience. These visits help bring learning to life and allow children to connect with real people, real stories, and real-world skills.

Learning Beyond the Schedule may include:

Hands-on projects that integrate art, science, and problem-solving
Outdoor science investigations and nature-based learning experiences
Cooking and practical life experiences are supported by family volunteers
Movement, building, and teamwork challenges across the camp property
Community partners sharing skills, careers, and passions
Guest Storytelling with parents and community members reading stories, sharing books they love, or connecting stories to real-life experiences
Parent-led activities that make learning personal, meaningful, and memorable

This approach allows learning to be deep, flexible, and authentic, while honoring student interests and curiosity. Instead of short, isolated “specials,” children engage in experiences that are woven into their daily learning and connected to the world around them.

At Forest Academy, learning isn’t confined to a single subject or time block—it’s an experience.

Why Montessori?

Learning by Doing at Forest Academy

Montessori education is built on the idea that children learn best through hands-on experiences. Instead of worksheets or passive learning, students actively explore concepts by working with materials, making choices, and solving real problems.

At Forest Academy, this approach comes to life both indoors and outdoors. Children use Montessori materials to explore math, language, and practical life skills, and then extend that learning into nature—counting with stones, building with sticks, sorting leaves, and testing ideas in real-world settings.

By learning through movement, touch, and exploration, children develop strong problem-solving skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of concepts. This blend of Montessori learning and outdoor experiences helps children stay engaged, curious, and excited about school.

Independence and Confidence

Montessori education encourages children to become independent thinkers and confident learners. At Forest Academy, students are given opportunities to make choices, solve problems, and work at their own pace within a supportive environment. This helps children develop self confidence, responsibility, and a strong sense of ownership over their learning.

Through hands on experiences both indoors and outdoors, children practice real life skills such as caring for their environment, building structures, preparing food, and working through challenges with peers. These experiences empower students to trust their abilities, try new things, and grow into capable, resilient learners that carry these skills beyond the classroom.

Connection with Nature

Montessori places a strong emphasis on learning through the senses, which naturally connects with outdoor education. At Forest Academy, time spent in nature supports sensory development, environmental awareness, and a sense of curiosity and wonder.

By using the outdoors as an extension of the classroom, students learn to observe closely, care for their surroundings, and develop a meaningful connection with the natural world. These experiences help children build respect for the environment while supporting their overall growth and well being.

Future Plans

Future Plans for Forest Academy

Forest Academy is a growing, Montessori-inspired, nature-based program located at Camp Adventure and operated as a satellite program to Grissom Elementary School. Our goal is to provide a high-quality learning experience that supports the whole child while staying grounded in what is developmentally appropriate and sustainable. As we continue to grow, we are committed to being open and transparent with families about what lies ahead.

2025–2026 School Year

Current Program

Forest Academy currently serves a full-day PreK and Kindergarten program based at Camp Adventure.
The program operates as a satellite to Grissom Elementary School and follows the Muncie Community Schools calendar and guidelines.
Students experience daily outdoor learning, Montessori work cycles, hands-on projects, and real-world experiences throughout the Camp Adventure property.

2026–2027 School Year

Planned Transition

Forest Academy plans to transition to a combined Kindergarten and First Grade (K/1) classroom.
This mixed-age model aligns with Montessori practices and allows students to continue growing in independence, confidence, and academic skills.

Looking Ahead to 2027–2028

Thoughtful Growth

We are exploring the possibility of expanding to two classrooms at Camp Adventure:
- a PreK and Kindergarten classroom
- a combined 1st and 2nd grade classroom
These plans are still in discussion and will be guided by enrollment, staffing, and what best supports student learning.

Our Commitment to Families

As Forest Academy continues to grow, we remain committed to:

Transparency by keeping families informed as plans develop
Quality over speed by expanding thoughtfully and intentionally
Whole-child development with a focus on academics, independence, problem solving, and real-life skills

As a growing program, adjustments may occur along the way. We appreciate the partnership and trust of our families as we continue building a meaningful, engaging learning experience for children.

Contact and Enrollment

Thank you for your interest in the Forest Academy Kindergarten/1st Grade (K/1) program at Camp Adventure for the 2026–2027 school year. Please complete the Forest Academy Interest Form below to share your interest in enrollment for Fall 2026.

Forest Academy Interest Form

In the meantime, if you have any questions or would like to receive updates, please don’t hesitate to contact us at campadventure-info@muncieschools.org

FAQs

Will my child be warm enough in winter?

What if there is severe weather?

What are the qualifications of the teachers at The Camp Adventure Forest Academy?

Forest Academy is staffed by licensed Indiana teachers who are certified in Montessori education through the North American Montessori Center (NAMC). Both the classroom teacher and the Camp Program Coordinator have completed Montessori training for Early Childhood Ages 3-6 and hold NAMC certification.

The program is also supported by an instructional aide who meets the same hiring requirements, training, and procedures as those used by Muncie Community Schools for instructional aides.

All Forest Academy staff are trained in CPR and First Aid and participate in ongoing professional development to support Montessori-inspired learning, outdoor education, and student safety.

What Will a Class Look Like?

Learning Spaces at Forest Academy

At Forest Academy, learning extends far beyond four walls. The entire Camp Adventure property serves as our classroom, allowing students to learn through hands-on experiences in nature each day.

Current Program
Forest Academy currently serves a full-day PreK and Kindergarten classroom located at Camp Adventure. Students attend Camp Adventure daily as part of the school day and learn through a blend of Montessori-inspired practices, outdoor education, and real-world experiences. Class sizes and staffing follow Indiana guidelines to ensure safe, supportive, and developmentally appropriate learning environments.

Looking Ahead
Forest Academy is thoughtfully growing. For the 2026–2027 school year, the program plans to transition to a combined Kindergarten and First Grade (K/1) classroom. Any future expansion beyond that will be guided by student needs, staffing, and program sustainability.

Our Learning Environment
The program is supported by Forest Academy staff, the Camp Program Coordinator, family volunteers, and strong partnerships with community organizations. Camp Adventure’s 40-acre campus provides space for exploration, movement, and discovery, allowing for personalized learning and meaningful, hands-on experiences for every child.

How do you ensure safety?

Safety at Forest Academy

Safety is a top priority at Forest Academy. We are intentional about creating an environment where children can explore, take appropriate risks, and learn with confidence.

To support student safety, we:

Maintain low student-to-staff ratios that meet Indiana guidelines
Conduct daily checks of learning areas and outdoor spaces
Ensure staff are trained in CPR and First Aid
Teach clear safety expectations and routines to students
Supervise children closely during all indoor and outdoor activities

Our approach balances adventure with thoughtful risk management. Students are encouraged to explore, climb, build, and problem-solve within clearly defined boundaries, helping them develop confidence, awareness, and responsibility while staying safe.

What will my child need to bring or wear?

What Will My Child Need to Bring or Wear?

Proper clothing is essential for success at Forest Academy, where students learn outdoors year-round. Dressing appropriately allows children to stay comfortable, safe, and fully engaged in learning throughout the day.

For colder months, we follow a layering approach to outdoor clothing. Families can find a helpful layering guide linked on our website from Outdoor School Shop, along with a visual chart showing temperature ranges and recommended layers. These resources are also referenced in the Parent Handbook.

Cold Weather Layering

Families provide all clothing layers.

Base Layer: Insulated, moisture-wicking layers worn closest to the body (Many students arrive at school wearing their base layers)

Mid Layer: Warm layers such as fleece or sweatshirts
Outer Layer: Waterproof and wind-resistant layers

Many families choose to send puddle jumpers for rainy days and snowsuits for colder months. These outer layers are typically kept at school so students can easily transition outdoors without needing to bring them back and forth each day.

Clothing & Materials Checklist

(Full checklist available in the Parent Handbook)

Outerwear & Layers

Waterproof pants
- Lightweight waterproof pants or puddle jumpers for rainy days
- Thicker waterproof pants or snowsuits for winter
Full-length pants
- Leggings, tights, or thermal layers may be worn underneath in colder weather
Waterproof coat with a hood
- Insulated for winter, with room for layers underneath

Footwear

Indoor shoes: Clean shoes for indoor use
Rain boots (wellies): Required for wet or muddy conditions
Snow boots: Required during winter months
Sturdy shoes: Closed-toe shoes for outdoor exploration during warmer months

Accessories

A warm hat that covers the ears in cold weather
Waterproof mittens or gloves
Warm wool or fleece socks

Clothing for Outdoor Protection

Long-sleeve tops to protect from the sun, stinging nettles, ticks, and biting insects

Daily Essentials

Refillable water bottle
Lightweight backpack

Sunscreen & Bug Spray

Camp has sunscreen and bug spray available
Please provide any allergy-specific or medical products your child needs
A sun hat is recommended during warmer months

Change of Clothes

Students should always have season-appropriate extra clothing at school. Many students keep two to three full changes of clothes available.

We provide bins in the restroom to help students organize their belongings and build independence when changing.

Helpful Reminders

Families do not need to have all the gear at the start of the year. We will communicate as seasons change.
Keeping outer layers at school helps support independence and smooth transitions.
Proper clothing ensures students can fully participate in outdoor learning every day.

What Are Your Practices and Policies Around Technology?

We believe nature should take center stage in childhood development. Technology is minimally used at Camp Adventure, such as referencing a wildlife identification app when needed. Exceptions may occur for testing or benchmarking requirements.

Outside of school, we encourage families to limit screen time, especially for young children. As a community, we support practices that emphasize:

Limited technology use during school time.
More opportunities for real-world play and independence.

Our approach helps children develop a deep connection with nature while fostering creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking skills.

Will My Child Adjust to a Traditional Classroom After Forest Academy?

This is a common and important question, and one we take seriously.

Montessori education is designed to build strong foundations that support children in any learning environment they encounter later. At Forest Academy, students develop independence, focus, problem-solving skills, and self-regulation—skills that actually help children transition successfully into traditional classrooms.

While Montessori classrooms may look different from traditional classrooms, the core academic foundations are still met. Students at Forest Academy engage in early literacy, math, and language development aligned with school expectations, while also learning how to follow routines, work independently, collaborate with peers, and listen to adults—skills essential in any classroom setting.

Research and long-term observations of Montessori students show that children who have participated in Montessori programs are not less likely to acclimate to traditional classrooms. In fact, many transition smoothly because they:

Are comfortable working independently
Can follow multi-step directions
Have strong self-control and attention skills
Feel confident asking questions and advocating for themselves

At Forest Academy, we also intentionally support transitions. As students grow, teachers provide more structure, guidance, and group-learning opportunities to help children feel confident as they move into a more traditional classroom environment.

Choosing Forest Academy does not limit future options. Instead, it provides children with a strong academic and social foundation that supports success wherever they go next.

If you ever have questions about transitions or future placement, we are happy to talk through them with you and support your family in making the best choice for your child.

What are the Fees and Costs?

Fees & Costs

2026–2027 School Year
There will be no program fees for the 2026–2027 school year. Forest Academy will serve a combined Kindergarten and 1st Grade (K/1) classroom and will operate as a satellite program to Grissom Elementary, following Muncie Community Schools guidelines.

Preschool Program Fees
Program fees apply only to preschool enrollment. While preschool students paid a fee during the 2025–2026 school year, no preschool fees will apply until a preschool program is offered again, which is currently anticipated for the 2027–2028 school year.

Additional Costs to Plan For
While there is no program fee for the 2026–2027 school year, families should plan for:

Outdoor clothing and gear suitable for all seasons
Minimal school supplies, as outlined in the Parent Handbook

We strive to keep costs transparent and manageable and will communicate clearly with families as programs evolve.

Are There Forest Academy Tours Offered?

Can I tour Forest Academy?
Yes! We welcome families who are interested in Forest Academy to schedule a tour of Camp Adventure.

How do I schedule a tour?
To set up a tour, please contact Mallory McCullough, Camp Adventure Program Coordinator, at
campadventure-info@muncieschools.org.
Tours are scheduled by appointment so we can give families our full attention.

What will I see during the tour?
During your visit, you will:

Walk through the Camp Adventure property and outdoor learning spaces
Learn how Montessori-inspired learning works in a nature-based setting
Hear about daily routines, outdoor learning, and the Montessori work cycle
Ask questions about academics, transitions, safety, and what a typical day looks like

Can my child come to the tour?
Children are welcome to attend tours. Families often find it helpful to see how their child responds to the environment.

When are tours offered?
Tours are offered throughout the school year and during enrollment periods. Availability may vary based on the school schedule, weather, and programming.

What should I wear?
Because Forest Academy is an outdoor learning environment, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking outdoors.

Tours are a great way to see how Forest Academy differs from a traditional classroom and decide if it’s the right fit for your family. We look forward to welcoming you to Camp Adventure.

Parent Handbook

The Forest Academy Parent Handbook provides helpful information about our daily routines, outdoor learning expectations, Montessori-inspired practices, family communication, and school policies. We encourage families to review the handbook to better understand how Forest Academy operates and how we partner with families to support each child’s learning and well-being.

Forest Academy Handbook and Safety Plan

ForestAcademyHandbook2025-2026.pdf