Cloud Forest School

 
Today, we visited the Cloud Forest School which has 230 students who study English much more extensively than the public schools do.  The school is also focused on sustainability and reducing the environmental impact which I found to be a common theme here in Monteverde. With grade levels from preschool to 11th grade, the facility is diverse both in ages and population. It is located on 106 acres which are protected from development by a permanent easement. The children learn much here, and our two guides were well versed in English as well as ecology.  The school has many native plant gardens and a nursery, organic vegetable gardens, a greenhouse, recycling centers, a worm composting house and a biodiesel shed.  All in all it's a wonderful model for ethical living as even the germination beds use biodegradable containers.  Dr. Powell pointed out some trees  (reforestation) that were planted by her students from earlier visits.  These students learn not only how to meet the needs of their local community but also the process of becoming a "global citizen" in our world. I can't overemphasize how well they meet the requirements for teaching our youth to understand the necessity to reduce our global footprint on our world.
     More than 90% of the students are from the local community, however the school is an open door to children from all around the world.  International students come to learn here and English/Spanish is taught regularly.  While most of the natives can't afford to pay full tuition, there is an opportunity for scholarships and 75% of the students receive financial support.




composting

the garden and using biodegradable containers

No cafeteria and eating

the soccer field with astro turf

the steps with staained glass

teachers