About Us
Possibility
Discovery Woods has begun the school development phase in order to bring an alternative, tuition-free elementary school to Brainerd/Baxter, MN by September 2010.
Our aim is to improve student learning through the individualized educational philosophy of Montessori. This charter school will increase learning opportunities for students kindergarten though sixth grade and offer new professional opportunities for teachers in the Brainerd Lakes area. Discovery Woods will partner with the Audubon Center of the North Woods to provide meaningful environmental curriculum.
Parents, teachers, and community members please feel free to contact us if you would like to get involved.
Vision
Discovery Woods Montessori School is dedicated to educational excellence, environmental stewardship and personal growth. Our graduates will have the foundation to be lifelong learners and responsible leaders.
Mission
To provide Brainerd Lakes Area families a choice for high quality elementary education based on Montessori philosophy with an environmental focus.
Timeline
- Sept 2008 Discovery Woods Development Team formed with three members: Charles McQuinn, Nicole Mills, and Courtney Neifert
- Nov ‘08 - Mar ‘09 Public informational meetings were held
- Nov ‘08 - Mar ‘09 Exploration Phase *Collected names of potential students, teachers, board members
- Apr ‘09 - July ‘09 Proposal Phase *Wrote plans detailing how the charter school will operate
- July ‘09 - Oct ‘09 School Board Development Phase *Recruited seven-member Founding Board
Waited for proposal acceptance or denial from MN Department of Education - Nov ’09 - Aug 2010 Development Phase *Discovery Woods was granted acceptance to become a Charter School
- Sept 2010 Target to Open School with 76-102 students