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For all the most important things in education we have an inside track, since we reckon with the whole person, including heart and soul.
- Ruth Beechick
Often, those engaged in distance learning are asked about social issues and whether their children are receiving adequate social interaction. Statistics show that distance learning and home schooled children are actually very involved in their communities and possess highly developed communication skills. Because of their unique environment, these students are able to confidently interact with people of all ages, not just their own peer group. In this section, we’ll offer you some suggestions and resources to help assure your child is a thriving part of our community.
The Laurel Springs Community
Pen Pal Program
Laurel Springs students have the unique opportunity to build community and friendships through snail mail or email! If your child joins the Pen Pal program, he or she can develop a friendship with one or more fellow students. Your child can discuss how and why other kids his or her age are learning at home, or write to someone older and develop a mentoring relationship. For more information or to enroll in this program, click here. Kids4Earth ProgramLaurel Springs School and the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) Global 500 Forum created Kids4Earth, the first online environmental curriculum for grades six through eight. This integrated core science curriculum offers students the opportunity to learn about the environment, take action on a wide range of ecological and preservation issues, and become citizens who are aware of and connected to life on Earth.
Kids4Earth was written by Laurel Springs, with support from Laureates in the UNEP Global 500 Forum. Students study a wide range of environmental issues as they relate to life, physical, and earth sciences. Environmental pioneers such as Jane Goodall and Globetree Foundation share their stories and experiences and, through their journeys, students explore the planet, its plants, animals, and peoples.
Teen Voice NewsletterLaurel Springs students bring you the Teen Voice newsletter. It’s written and edited by a Laurel Springs student and a talented staff of fellow students. Teen VoiceCommunity ThreadsCommunity Threads is the Laurel Springs e-newsletter sent out monthly to the Laurel Springs community.
Laurel Springs Parent Journal
A bimonthly journal published just for parents covering an array of topics relating to education and distance learning.
MyLaurelSprings.com
A safe social networking website for Laurel Springs students and parents.
Laurel Springs School Newsletter
The Laurel Springs School Newsletter is a quarterly print publication designed to keep students, their families, and alumni up-to-date on what's happening at Laurel Springs, with a focus on school news, new courses, teacher profiles, and more. PromEvery year, Laurel Springs hosts a fun and memorable June prom in southern California. All high school students attending Laurel Springs are welcome. Students enjoy refreshments, music, dancing, fun, and prizes. Prom and graduation are held in the same location on the same weekend to make it easy for students traveling from a distance to enjoy both events. PromGraduationGraduating seniors have the opportunity to meet their classmates, teachers, and our wonderful staff during our formal graduation ceremony (complete with caps, gowns, and diplomas). Students from around the world often fly in for this amazing and moving event. Graduation
Please click on the Student Services menu above for more information about our student community activities.
Community Service
Community service is a truly wonderful way for children of all ages to feel connected to something greater than themselves. It can be inspiring for children to help others in their community. It will give them a sense of belonging, of confidence, and will connect them to other caring individuals, as they learn all sorts of new things. There are many activities that fall under the category of community service. Some examples are: helping at an animal shelter; visiting the elderly in rest homes; helping with disaster relief; helping with cleaning up a beach, the neighborhood, or the community; volunteering with an environmental organization; volunteering at the local library or in a reading program.
Here are some organizations that will help you learn more about community service options:
Finding Activities
Sports
Many Laurel Springs students are gymnasts, figure skaters, or tennis players (to name a few). Sports are an excellent way for your child to develop socially as well as physically.
Theater Arts, Vocal, Instrumental, and Dance Groups
These groups offer children an opportunity to interact socially while learning and building creativity.
Museums
Many museums offer wonderfully rich programs and activities for students of all ages.
Religious Organizations
Many families belong to religious organizations. These groups can offer children a supportive social and spiritual environment.
A Final Thought…
We want you to have a rich, rewarding, and successful learning experience with Laurel Springs. Our faculty and staff are available when you need guidance. You are part of our community and we hope to hear from you often.
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