Taiga Forest school San Francisco
EN / RU
Golden Gate Park, San Francisco

Mission and Values

Mission and values

Our mission is to support children’s development through meaningful experiences in nature. We are doing so through the values described below.

Nature connection

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Children thrive in natural environment. Teachers facilitate meaningful connection with nature and nature-based learning in the park’s ecosystem.

Child-led learning

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We believe in the power of child-led learning, an approach that honors children as natural, capable explorers who learn best when following their own curiosity. Instead of using a rigid curriculum, our educators adapt to your child's organic interests, turning everyday play and discoveries into profound learning opportunities. By empowering children to co-create their educational journey, we cultivate deep engagement, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Hands-on experiences

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In early ages children lean the best by engaging with their environment, rather that by sitting and doing worksheets. Teachers provide opportunity and guidance for kids to actively engage with everything that nature provides.

Healthy risk-taking

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We view healthy risk-taking—whether it's climbing a little higher or trying a challenging new activity—as an essential part of building your child's resilience. Under the supportive guidance of our educators, children are given the freedom to safely test their physical and emotional boundaries. By learning to navigate manageable challenges, they develop crucial problem-solving skills, learn to overcome hesitation, and build a profound trust in their own capabilities.

Community

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We strive to cultivate community among Taiga School families. In order to do so, we host family gatherings throughout the year. These events will be included in the yearly school calendar. We also hold Parent-Teacher conferences so that you can be informed about your child’s progress. You will receive weekly updates throughout the school year detailing the activities your child is engaged in during the week and what they are learning.

Respect for nature

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As naturalists we are committed to inspiring and teaching respect for the earth and all its creatures and this includes modeling and fostering respect for self and for others at all times.

Independence

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We foster independence by creating a supportive environment where children feel empowered to take ownership of their daily routines, from pouring their own water to managing their belongings. By giving them the space to try, occasionally struggle, and ultimately succeed on their own, we help them develop a strong sense of autonomy and deep self-worth.