Why choose flourish nature school?
At Flourish Nature School, we believe in cultivating a nurturing environment where children flourish in harmony with the wisdom of nature. We are committed to offering a holistic and empowering educational experience that integrates powerful educational and psychological theories that nourish the mind, body and soul. It is our mission to empower young minds to grow, thrive, and begin to discover their innate potential while forging a deep bond with creation.
Our Location at Camp Johnsonburg
Flourish Nature School is located on the beautiful 300 acre property of Johnsonburg Camp and Retreat Center -- a non-profit Christian camp and retreat center established over 60 years ago. Camp Johnsonburg offers overnight summer camp for ages 6 to 17, retreat and venue rentals, family fun days, and events for all ages. Flourish Nature School was a vision of the board of trustees and is the newest addition to the Johnsonburg community and we cannot wait to watch it grow and thrive!
Our Classrooms
Nature is our classroom! However, Flourish Nature School has 2 beautiful and inviting classroom locations designed specifically for the school.
The Outdoor Classroom: Located in Upper Meadow (next to the Butterfly Garden)
The Indoor Classroom: Located in the Recreation Center (Rec Center)
We will be spending up to 90% of our time outside. You will also find us in the Butterfly Garden, picnicking, hiking a nature trail, swinging, observing the lake, jumping in puddles, running, climbing, and playing across Johnsonburg's bountiful campus. We will be on rocky terrain, uneven ground, balancing on logs, getting dirty and navigating the fun obstacles nature gives us to help us learn and grow.
Meet the Teacher
Ms Jen holds a life-long passion for teaching,
knowing from a young age that this was her path
in life. She graduated from Kutztown University in
2011 with a degree in Early Childhood and
Elementary Education. Her career has led her to
teach in special education, kindergarten, and
early childhood yoga and mindfulness. During her
time as a stay at home mom raising her two
children, she connected with the late Kelly
Simonetti at Antler Ridge Wildlife Sanctuary, who
inspired her path to teach through a nature-
inspired lens. She opened her nature class
business on Kelly's property, which was cut short
due to the unfortunate passing of Kelly and
closing of Antler Ridge. It wasn't long before the
opportunity at Johnsonburg presented itself and
Flourish was born! Ms Jen feels she is right where
she is meant to be and can’t wait to grow the
Flourish community.
