The Louisa May Alcott Community is proud to share an exciting new chapter – one rooted in curiosity, connection, and purpose. As we begin this journey together, we are thrilled to introduce the vision behind Alcott Community School, where learning extends far beyond the classroom walls.
Our goal is to create a joyful and inclusive environment where every child is known, valued, and motivated to learn. We believe education is most powerful when it connects students to real-world experiences, helping them grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
A Place-Based Approach to Learning
At Alcott Community School, learning is deeply connected to the world around us. Through a place-based education model, students engage with their local environment and community partners in meaningful ways.
From hands-on experiences in gardens and greenhouses to creative exploration in makerspaces and literacy-rich classrooms, every aspect of learning is designed to be engaging and relevant. This approach helps students build essential skills while fostering curiosity, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of their community.
Partnerships and Community Collaboration
We are honored to work alongside families and local organizations to create enriching learning experiences. Through community events, family literacy nights, and collaborative projects, we aim to build a vibrant and connected learning environment.
We are also excited to announce new partnerships and sponsorships that support our mission:
- Teton Science School
- UVU – For the Love of Reading
- Utah Society of Environmental Education
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These partnerships will help expand opportunities for students and strengthen our connection to the broader community.
Leadership and Vision for the Future
Our school is guided by a dedicated board committed to building a strong foundation for the future:
- Carrie Ashcraft – Board Chair
- Ken Bulpitt – Vice Chair
- Reba Morgan – Treasurer
- Melanie Bott – Secretary
- Soana Grieder – Board Member
- Carl Spencer – Board Member
- Cassidy Warren – Board Member
- Michelle Bulpitt – Board Member
Looking ahead, our vision includes a thoughtfully designed campus inspired by historic architecture in Mapleton, Utah. Plans include outdoor learning spaces, a greenhouse, gardens, and innovative makerspaces that bring learning to life.
We are excited to share that the future school location will be announced soon – an important step in bringing this vision into reality.
Place-based Education Model – Learn More!
Website and article: “Before formal education, “the great majority of children learned within the context of their families, neighborhoods, and communities as they watched, listened to, and imitated adults, explored the natural and human-made world, and interacted with one another” (Smith, 2016).Getting Started with Place-Based Education (Teton Science School)
Video: In “Hood River Middle School, place-based learning makes student learning relevant and engaging by turning their local geography, culture, history, and economy into classroom lessons”. Place-based Education in Hood River, Oregon (Edutopia- Connecting Kids to their Community)
Podcast: “PBE as powerful, personalized learning models that can boost access and outcomes to better equip learners with skills to address the challenges of the modern world”. Getting Smart- a Place-based Education Podcast (Getting Smart – Choose an episode- listen and learn)