The Patchwork School

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I have been unbelievably lucky to be a part of this community since 2007, it is an environment that is responsive, encouraging, and revolutionary in it's way that it educates children and adults.
--Submitted by a teacher

After visiting many schools in the area, this is the only one I wanted my child to attend. Two years later, I'm certain I made the right choice. The children in this school are involved and often self-directed, as well as well-loved. The teachers notice the individual children and create activities targeted toward helping them learn and grow. The pay attention to what the kids are interested in and build activities around those areas. They invite and welcome parent involvement in many ways and have a parent meeting area in the school. At other schools I visited, the kids were often standing and waiting for teachers to tell them what was next. At this school, kids are actively involved. They learn social skills, friendship skills, and community building skills. The teachers are very involved, but equally as important, they don't interfere with children's natural learning process. Additionally, they use the same open approach in their communications with parents that they teach in the school. In other words, they walk their talk.
--Submitted by a parent

It's hard to find a pre-school or toddler program where so many factors are all integrated: the quality of the teachers, the real passion and love for learning and for kids, quality outdoors time with shade, open minds and respect for children. Mi kid has had a great experience. The Patchwork is in a category of its own.
--Submitted by a parent

This environment is not for every child. The philosophy seems great on paper and in presentations but the implication can often look loose, unsupported, chaotic, and lazy. Although I do believe the teachers care tremendouly about the children, many do not have a background in education and lack in helping support social skills. Often I had found my child unattended, unsupported, and left to figure things out a preschool child is not capable of. Teachers often do not greet children at entrance or even know where your child is at depature. There is little structure and often the environment seems chaotic and overwhelmeing.
--Submitted by a parent

Very involved parent and teacher community that is dedicated to democratic learning and self-guided education.
--Submitted by a parent

I have two boys in their 4th year at Patchwork. The experience for both of them has been incredible. They are so inquisitive which I credit to the way Patchwork supports them in exploring subjects of their choosing." Parent, 2010
--Submitted by a parent

As a professor at CU-Boulder, I love being a volunteer at Patchwork School. I'm impressed with their distinctive educational philosophy, and it's clear that they are providing an environment where the children are growing socially and intellectually. And equally importantly, it's clear that the children are really happy.

"After working at the Patchwork School since 2007, I have come to realize that true learning is the commitment to discovering and re-discovering humanity, both within your self and in others; it s amazing how the school is constantly evolving in order to nurture true learning in ALL of its community members!"
--Submitted by a teacher

My son loves this school - it's a great, non coercive learning environment.
--Submitted by a parent