Our Approach

 
 

The Forest School Online empowers learners to take control of their education, transforming passions, real-world experiences, and independent studies into meaningful, credentialed learning.

When a learner joins The Forest School Online, they embark on a journey of self-directed discovery, academic growth, and personal fulfillment—whether their path leads to a top university, entrepreneurship, creative endeavors, or a career. Our flexible model supports learners from acceptance through their next big step, providing expert mentorship, structured Socratic discussions, and a mastery-based credentialing system that recognizes learning anytime, anywhere—including travel, passion projects, and hands-on experiences.

At the heart of The Forest School Online is a personalized, outcomes-driven approach where students design their own learning experiences, earn micro-credentials, and build a mastery transcript that showcases their unique strengths. With a global community of like-minded learners, whole-school weekly gatherings, and an emphasis on critical thinking and real-world application, we equip students with the skills, confidence, and agency to thrive—wherever their future takes them.

 
 

Design principles:

The following ideals shape every experience at The Forest School Online:

  • Inspiring & Empowering – Learning should spark curiosity, creativity, and self-direction.

  • Deeply Personalized & Self-Directed – Learners design their own studies, choosing what, how, and where they learn.

  • Diverse & Globally Connected – A thriving, relationship-centered community with students from around the world.

  • Mastery-Based & Real-World Focused – Learning is credentialed through micro-credentials and a mastery transcript, recognizing both academic and experiential achievements.

 

Our promises to your child:

He or she or they will...

  • Begin a journey to find your calling that will change the world.

  • Learn to be curious, become an independent learner, and love lifelong learning.

  • Explore their most precious gifts, along with the dedication it takes to develop them into marketable talents.

  • Understand the importance of strong character.

  • Cherish the arts, wonders of the physical world, & the mystery of life.

  • Treasure economic, political, & religious freedom.

 

Our core beliefs:

  • We believe each child has a gift that can change the world in a profound way.

  • We believe in a globally connected family of lifelong learners.

  • We believe in learning to be, learning to do, learning to learn, and learning to live together.

  • We believe in the power of freedom—economic, political, intellectual, and creative—to shape meaningful learning and personal growth.

 

Our Methods of Learning:

 

MENTORSHIP & SUPPORT

Guides provide regular check-ins for goal-setting, accountability, and personalized feedback.

CREDENTIALING

Learners earn micro-credentials by demonstrating mastery through real-world applications, building a transcript that highlights their skills for college, careers, and beyond.

INDEPENDENT STUDY DESIGN

Learners design customized plans aligned with their passions, career goals, and academic pursuits, creating real-world projects that showcase their mastery.

NETWORK & COMMUNITY

An online learning hub connects students with peers and professionals, fostering collaboration through discussions, guest speakers, virtual exhibitions, and project showcases.

 
 

What sets us apart:

 

1.  We have Guides not teachers
2.  We have customized learning plans not standardized courses
3.  We have mastery and exhibitions not grades
4.  We have agreements not rules
5.  We ask big questions not lecture

6.  No busywork, no homework!
7.  Learning happens anywhere, not just online
8.  Students learn at their own pace
9.  Travel is learning
10. Real-world projects, not just theory

 
 

the learner experience:

At The Forest School Online, learners are trusted and empowered to take charge of their education, shaping their own “Badge Plans” and using their learning to make a real impact. Our self-directed, mastery-based model puts learners at the center, allowing them to set goals, engage in meaningful projects, and earn credentials for real-world work.

Learners study in a globally connected, mixed-age community, where they collaborate, mentor, and learn from one another. Guides are not lecturers but mentors and coaches, providing support, structure, and accountability without dictating the learning process. Through live Socratic discussions, personalized mentorship, and an interactive online learning hub, learners track their progress, share their work, and receive feedback from peers, guides, and industry professionals. Families can access progress updates at any time, ensuring full transparency and partnership in the learning journey.