Mission
We create a warm and natural environment that encourages children to explore and develop their individual capabilities and to learn problem-solving and respect for others in a spirit of kindness, and that nurtures a sense of belonging in our community.
Philosophy
At Harmony School, we feel each child’s unique qualities should be nurtured. We view each child as an individual with needs and abilities that differ from other children. Every child has his or her own learning style, special talents and unique gifts. We individualize instruction to address each child’s special qualities.
History
Harmony School was founded by Deborah Holmes and Laura Rich in 1988. They, along with many encouraging parents, wanted an alternative to public education for their children that allowed for children’s different learning styles, emotional and social behavior and allowed children to have a “say so” in what they learned.
Since then Harmony School has undergone many changes. The school moved to its present campus in 1993, became a non-profit organization in 1994 and, in 2001, expanded the preschool/k program to 40 children. In August 2005, Harmony School added an elementary classroom for grades 1-3 and, in 2009, added a third preschool class. In the summer of 2010, we completed renovations on our administrative and multi-use building on Covenant Road.
Facility
Harmony School is made up of several buildings nestled in three acres of land in a well-established neighborhood in Forest Acres. The property includes ample open space and playground equipment and is bordered by a creek and nature trail that runs along the outside of the playground area.
The school has three small garden and vegetable plots with a greenhouse and a number of flower beds. The children help with planting as part of the curriculum. The garden area is also home to several fruit trees, grapevines and decorative birdbaths, stepping stones and other statuary. The property has a half-court basketball court and an outdoor classroom area.
The preschool and kindergarten building is a one-story, 5,000 sq. ft. building. There are three classrooms with large windows that overlook the school grounds. The building has a fully-functioning kitchen and three separate restrooms, including one that is handicapped accessible. There is a large outdoor patio where students enjoy lunch.
The elementary classroom is separate from the preschool and kindergarten building and features an open classroom with a variety of work-spaces. Next to the elementary class is an additional classroom often used for related studies, special projects and meetings. For Fall 2014, our elementary program will be relocated to the multi-purpose building (see below) and will contain the school library, a computer lab and the lower and upper elementary classes.
In the summer of 2010, Harmony School completed renovations on a multi-purpose building which faces Covenant Road. The building is a school-wide gathering space, rainy day play space and houses the school library and administrative operations. We are eternally grateful for the hundreds of hands, minds and hearts that made our beautiful new building possible.
Hours of Operation
Student arrival: 7:45 – 8:30 am
Preschool: 8:30 am – 2:15pm (includes nap)
Kindergarten: 8:30 am -2:15 pm
Elementary: 8:15 am – 2:45 pm
After School Care: 2:15 pm – 5:45 pm
