Mission & Core Values
From 2012 - 2025, these were the values that we held dear -
Painted Oak Nature School was a nurturing community of learners that valued kindness, cooperation, curiosity, imagination, and respect for all living things. We cultivated habits that instilled confidence, capability, and self-reliance. Through daily interactions with the environment, our school promoted a holistic nature-based education for preschoolers, grade schoolers, and their families that fostered deep connections with the natural world and to each other.
These same values now continue through the Painted Oak Project, carrying the spirit of Painted Oak forward to families, schools, and communities everywhere.
Building Community
We are linked by the compassionate, respectful interactions that we share with the natural world and each other.
Fostering Independence
We are confident and resilient, which allows us to take risks, handle disappointment, and persevere through challenges.
Encouraging Creativity
Through curious questioning, communication, and the use of imagination, we are problem solvers and flexible thinkers.