New director, teacher hired for 3- to 5-year-olds
Fox Hollow Forest School in Chittenden has hired Jennifer Popp, of Pittsford (the current director of the Pittsford Recreation Center) to be the school’s first director.
Popp previously owned and ran the Children’s Garden Daycare for 19 years, a highly regarded nature-based childcare program.
Joining her as lead teacher is Cristy Lauzon, a former kindergarten, grade one and grade two teacher at Barstow Memorial School and a yoga instructor for 3- to 5-year-olds at Mindful Monkeys in Rutland.
The two teachers have been joyfully welcomed through comments on Fox Hollow’s Facebook page by local community members, many of whom had their own children in one or another’s care in years past.
“I’m very excited for this opportunity to implement and execute a nature-based preschool program,” said Popp. “Nature-based learning is an effective way for children to fulfill their learning potential. I’m very excited to have the opportunity to work with our terrific staff and creators of this endeavor!”
Popp and Lauzon will welcome up to 20 children on site at Barstow Memorial School and conduct the school’s outdoor based program on the grounds of the East Creek Trails, five days a week, year-round.
Otherwise known as a nature-based preschool, the program conducts the majority of the day outside in nature, using the children’s natural curiosity and nature’s cycles as the foundation to meet VELS learning standards for that age group. It is the only full-time preschool option in the Chittenden/Mendon area and the only nature-based preschool within an hour’s drive of Rutland.
An initial enrollment period closed June 30 with rolling admissions continuing as long as spots are available.
“People keep stopping us at the library or the Wooden Barrel to say what a wonderful team they are,” said board member Kristin Lucas. “These two teachers are the heart and soul of the school and we’re so thrilled to have found such experienced educators who embody the values of curiosity, a love of nature and child-led learning.”
It’s a welcome milestone for Clair Purcell and Kristin Lucas, local Chittenden residents who spent the better part of two years securing a location for the school. The Barstow Memorial School Board approved the leasing of a classroom to the private preschool in May, citing a lack of full time preschool options in the district and the connection of local children who would be attending Barstow for primary school as key drivers for the decision. A Make Way for Kids grant is providing the initial funding for set up.
There will be an open evening for all enrolled and curious families on Thursday, July 13, 6-7 p.m. at Barstow Memorial School, room 107.
For more information visit foxhollowforestschool.com.
