About Us
Where children develop a deep understanding of themselves and the world around them
Medford, New Jersey
We embrace children where they are and guide them to become the
best versions of themselves. Stepping Stones fosters:
Self-Confidence
Creativity
Ingenuity/Problem-Solving
Inclusiveness
Independence
At Stepping Stones Nature School nestled within the breathtaking Pinelands of New Jersey, our mission is to provide a holistic educational experience that seamlessly blends academics with the boundless wonders of nature.
We believe that the natural environment serves as an invaluable classroom, enriching the minds, bodies, and spirits of our students. Through a comprehensive curriculum rooted in experiential learning, we strive to foster a deep sense of curiosity, connection, and stewardship towards the natural world.
Our nature school embraces the unique attributes of the Pinelands region, with its diverse ecosystem, rich history, and cultural heritage. We aim to ignite a love for learning through engaging lessons that integrate the principles of science, mathematics, language arts, and social studies within the context of the environment.
While academic achievement is a core pillar of our approach, we recognize the immense value of holistic development. Our nature school empowers students to cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills as they navigate real-world challenges within the natural setting. Through hands-on exploration, students gain a deep understanding of ecological systems, sustainability, and the interdependence of all living beings.
In our nurturing and inclusive community, every student is celebrated as a unique individual with their own strengths and interests. We prioritize the development of character, resilience, and empathy, instilling in our students a sense of responsibility towards themselves, their peers, and the environment.
By embracing the Pinelands as our classroom and blending academics with immersive outdoor experiences, Stepping Stones Nature School strives to inspire lifelong learners, confident leaders, and compassionate global citizens who will contribute positively to the world around them. Together, we embark on a transformative journey that nurtures both intellect and heart, fostering a deep connection between our students and the natural wonders of the Pinelands.
We use a curriculum from a variety of sources. Some of the curriculum we pull from includes:
Fundations
The Fundations® curriculum: Is sequential, systematic, and cumulative. Integrates skill instruction so that a daily lesson teaches and then reinforces corresponding skills. Scaffolds learning while teaching all skills explicitly, sequentially, and systematically.
Illustrative Math
Illustrative Mathematics (IM) is a K–12® core curriculum designed to give all students equity and access to grade-level mathematics — ensuring each student is an active participant in their learning.