Learning Environment

Indoor/Outdoor Learning

We support learning in a variety of environments as learning has no bounds! Our indoor classroom takes on a natural aesthetic so our outdoor "classroom" becomes an extension. Creating spaces for unstructured play in both areas provides the greatest opportunity for children to explore, discover and truly enjoy the process of learning.

Classroom

Creating an environment in which a child can thrive is very important to us. Calvary’s indoor classroom is a sun-drenched space filled with natural furnishings. It is a warm and inviting place to learn, play, build and create!

Classroom

Around the classroom are activities that encourage S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, art and technology) learning. Given the abundance of natural light and the school’s focus on nature, the classroom’s window sills are often home to nature treasures and plants growing at various stages.

Classroom

Special areas are frequently rotated to encourage imaginative play; including a tree house, a quiet fort, dramatic play toys and costumes.

Play Yard

The school and its play yard are set back on a quiet street in historic Stonington Borough. It’s park-like setting abuts the Avalonia Nature Preserve and provides a view to the Long Island Sound. The play yard offers a large green space to run and play as well as special areas to inspire one’s imagination. Children enjoy the row boat, tree house, Founders’ Cottage, sand pit, climbing stumps, outdoor kitchen, playscape, and more.

Beyond Campus

The play yard and the natural surroundings of the Calvary campus are considered Calvary’s outdoor classroom as just as much of the children’s education takes place outdoors. Students enjoy adventures around Stonington Borough; including walks to the nearby marsh, exploration of the fishing community’s lobster boats, new adventures at the Borough playground, field trips to New England Science and Sailing (NESS), and simple strolls to take in their surroundings as the seasons change.

Mother Nature

Calvary students explore their natural surroundings with curiosity and wonder. What happens when a pumpkin rots? How does a spider spin its web? Why do birds migrate? Often times learning occurs in the most casual encounters in nature. A Calvary Day generally ends with your little one coming home fresh-faced with muddy boots and pockets full of nature treasures. All-weather outdoor play encourages children to find fun and excitement in all that Mother Nature has to offer in every season.