At Cocoplum Nature School, we envision a generation of children so nurtured and joyful in school in their formative years that their civic engagement, leadership, and daily lives are guided by principles of justice, peace, inclusion, environmental stewardship, and democracy. Our mission is to offer an elementary school education founded upon nature-based and place-based educational principles that honor children as individuals, promote joyful learning, and support their growth as members of their community and stewards of the earth.
Cocoplum Nature Play, offered in spring of 2021, is our part-time program for homeschooling and distance learning families with children ages 4 to 8.
We meet twice weekly at Lake Ida East Park in Delray Beach for interdisciplinary exploration, inquiry, and learning.
The full-day school will open to children in grades K to 2 in August of 2021.
Cocoplum Nature School is a non-profit private school, and we rely upon contributions from our generous donors, grants, and student tuition. As a new school, we are currently pursuing 501(c)3 tax-exempt status and Florida Department of Education private school registration.
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"The whole [Cocoplum Nature Play] concept is appealing to me as a homeschooling mama with other children. I know my daughter is in great hands with nurturers and educators to learn in her environment while I can guide my younger child in his own play or take time-out to nurse my baby." - V.K., mother to a 5-year-old, 3-year-old, and 1-year-old.
"Delray has needed a school like Cocoplum for a long time. The weather here is beautiful year-round. It only makes sense to immerse our kids in all nature has to offer, to have them learning everything they need to learn in school in a way that's enjoyable." -J.S., parent to a 5-year-old and 2-year-old.
"Learning outside has so many benefits for the learner and ultimately their families and communities and the environment. I'm excited to be part of this work. Melanie and Fernanda are pioneers." -Y.B, community member.
