2025-2026
Idlehurst Learning Collective 2025–2026 Parent Handbook & Calendar
Mission Statement
Idlehurst Learning Collective fosters personalized education, a strong work ethic, and character development through farm-based learning grounded in community, reflection, and meaningful, hands-on experiences.
Curriculum
Idlehurst Learning Collective uses a nature-based and structured academic approach, by using a range of high quality curricula. Core instruction includes Blossom and Root for language arts, science, handwriting, and nature study, and Singapore Math for its emphasis on problem-solving and conceptual understanding. We also integrate resources from other curricula as needed to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded academic experience. Academic learning is reinforced through daily farm-based activities that develop practical skills and apply classroom concepts in real-world contexts. Instruction is tailored to each student’s developmental level. Core academic time is supported by enrichment in art, physical education, handicrafts, nature journaling, and farm-based life skills. Agricultural and horticulture science is integrated through daily chores and seasonal projects. Students learn biology, sustainability, and responsibility by working with plants, animals, and farm systems.
2025–2026 School Calendar and Important Dates
First Day of School: Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Thanksgiving Break: November 25-28, 2025
Christmas Break: December 20-January 5, 2026
Spring Break: April 10-17, 2026
Last Day of School: May 22, 2026
Description of Programs
The Saplings (Kindergarten–1st Grade)
The Saplings program provides a developmentally appropriate introduction to formal learning, combining foundational academics with experiential, nature-based activities. Students build early skills in literacy, math, and science through the guidance of Blossom and Root and Singapore Math. Daily routines include ELA, handwriting, math, and science instruction, as well as, read-alouds, hands-on exploration, and outdoor learning, where students begin to develop responsibility through age-appropriate care of the land and animals, all within a structured and supportive environment.
The Saplings focus on:
• Early literacy, handwriting, and numeracy
• Nature study, poetry, and imaginative exploration
• Foundational farm skills like seed starting, animal care, and tool introduction
• Faith-inspired values are integrated into everyday learning and experiences.
• The Saplings thrive in an environment where curiosity is honored, imaginations are encouraged, and each child is given the time and space to grow at their own pace—just like young trees reaching toward the light
The Oaks (2nd–6th Grade)
The Oaks are growing, curious learners who begin to take deeper root in both knowledge and responsibility. This group engages with the world more thoughtfully, developing core academic skills in ELA, handwriting, math, and science, while contributing in meaningful ways to the life of the farm. Using Blossom and Root and Singapore Math as guides, students are encouraged to ask thoughtful questions, observe carefully, and think critically.
The Oaks experience:
• Focused academic study emphasizing mastery and critical thinking
• Expanded nature journaling, science exploration, and historical inquiry
• Meaningful farm responsibilities, including garden planning and animal care
• Integration of a faith-inspired worldview alongside open, respectful discussions on character and values
• Opportunities for leadership, craftsmanship, and mentorship within the community
• In the Oaks group, students begin to see themselves not just as learners—but as stewards, problem-solvers, and contributors to the world around them.
Placement Testing
We believe truley effective education begins with strong relationships and deep understanding of each child as a unique learner. During your child’s one-hour placement session, our goal is to connect personally thorugh hands-on, nature-inspired activities and simple conversation. We want to get to know your child’s interests, learning style, and personality - because learning happens best in a space where children feel known and valued. We also spend 15-20 minutes on gentle academic assessments using a blend of tools from various high quality curriculums we dram from. These activities help us understand your child’s strengths and needs in reading, writing and math so we can place them in the best fit learning groups and support them. This process is not about testing for a grade level - it’s about discovering how we can help your child thrive here on the farm. For example, your child may be 1st grade age but may placement test into the second grade, putting them in the oaks program verse the sapling program because it better fits their academic needs.
Attendance Options
Saplings (Kindergarten–1st Grade)
We now offer both a 2-day and a 3-day attendance option for our youngest learners:
2-Day Option
Families may choose Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday, totaling 72 instructional days for the year. This schedule includes rich, hands-on learning experiences focused on nature, foundational academics, and play-based exploration on our farm.
3-Day Option
Families may choose Monday/Wednesday/Friday or Tuesday/Thursday/Friday, adding Friday to the 2-day schedule for a fuller weekly rhythm and connection to whole-group enrichment activities. This totals 102 instructional days for the year.
The Oaks (2nd - 6th grade)
Students in The Oaks program may choose from a 3 day or 4 day option.
3-Day Option
Attend Tuesday through Thursday (totaling 102 instructional days). Families are responsible for completing the remainder of their homeschool days at home to meet South Carolina’s 180-day requirement. Students in the 3-day track are always welcome to participate in our nine monthly family field trips.
4 Day Option
Attend Tuesday through Friday (totaling 136 instructional days). Students receive an additional 35 at-home lesson plans to complete, along with access to our nine monthly field trips. These experiences support both community building and the state’s 180-day requirement by extending learning beyond the classroom.
School Days & Hours
The Saplings The Oaks
Tuesday - Thursday Drop-Off 9:15 am - 9:30 am 8:45 am - 9:00 am
Tuesday - Thursday Pickup 1:45 pm - 2:00 pm 2:45 pm - 3:00 pm
Friday Drop-Off 9:15 am - 9:30 am 8:45 am - 9:00 am
Friday Pickup 11:45 am - 12:00 pm 12:15 pm - 12:30 pm
Program Pricing
The Saplings (K4-1st) The Oaks (2nd-6th) 2 days per Week
Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday
3 Days per Week - 114 Days
4 Days per Week - 152 Days
36 Take Home Lesson Add-on for 2 and 3 day students
$300/month
Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday N/A
$350/month
Monday/Wednesday/Friday
Tuesday/Thursday/Friday
$400/month
Tuesday - Friday
*5% Tuition discount for siblings does not apply to first child)
$500/month
Tuesday - Thursday
$600/month
Tuesday - Friday
Enrollment in Idlehurst Learning Collective requires a $300 enrollment and supply fee, which may be paid in full at the time of acceptance or split into two payments: $150 due at acceptance and $150 due on July 1st.
Enrichment Clubs
At Idlehurst Learning Collective, we believe learning extends beyond core academics. Our enrichment clubs, including Spanish and Horse Riding Club, offer students opportunities to explore their unique interests, build new skills, and enjoy hands-on, joyful experiences rooted in creativity, culture, and farm life. Clubs meet outside of core instructional time and are optional add-ons for enrolled families.
Spanish Club is a fun and engaging way for students to explore the Spanish language and Hispanic cultures. We focus on building a foundation of vocabulary, conversational phrases, and cultural appreciation. No prior Spanish experience is required! All students are welcome to participate in Spanish club meets weekly.
Pony club offers our youngest students the opportunity to learn about and interact with the horses once a week. These interactions will include grooming, worksheets, and short pony rides. This is a great way for young students to get exposed to horses, preparing them for independent lessons in the future.
Horse Riding Club offers older students the opportunity to build confidence, responsibility, and connection through individual riding lessons. Lessons are designed to meet each child at their experience level, whether they are first-time riders or continuing their horsemanship journey. Students learn riding skills, horse care, and safety in a calm and encouraging environment. Riding lessons are scheduled individually and are scheduled weekly or biweekly. Club Ages Frequency
Growing Together and Parent Volunteer Information
Idlehurst Learning Collective is grounded in the belief that education is most meaningful when experienced in community. We are committed to nurturing strong, intentional relationships among students and families through shared rhythms and meaningful experiences.
Each month, we organize a family field trip open to all students and their families, offering opportunities to explore nature, history, and local culture together beyond the classroom. We also invite guest speakers from the local community—including farmers, naturalists, artists, and other specialists—to enrich your child’s experience with their wisdom and skills.
Although we do not require parent volunteers, we offer parents the option to volunteer at Idlehurst Learning Collective. Parents who wish to volunteer must sign up in advance by using our designated sign-up system through Cognito Forms. For the safety and well-being of our students, all volunteers must complete a background check before participating in any on-campus activities. This is a standard procedure required by Idlehurst Learning Collective and helps us maintain a secure learning environment. We appreciate your partnership and support!
Homeschool Reporting Support
Idlehurst Learning Collective partners with families to support their homeschool requirements by providing necessary documentation for their reporting needs. We are pleased to work with Academic Advantage Association and will supply families with educational records for all instructional days spent with us. These records include:
• A record indicating the subjects taught and activities completed with the student;
• A portfolio of student work samples;
• A semi-annual progress report that includes attendance records and individualized documentation of academic progress across core instructional areas.
Please note: It is the responsibility of each parent or guardian to complete the reporting for the remainder of the 180 required school days and to submit all necessary documentation to their homeschool association in accordance with state law.
These materials are designed to support families in meeting homeschool compliance requirements and to ensure a smooth and organized reporting process.
A Typical Day at Idlehurst
A typical day at Idlehurst Learning Collective blends both typical classroom and outdoor learning, no matter the weather. Rain or shine, hot or cold, students are immersed in classroom learning (based in our barn), farm life, nature walks, and hands-on projects. Because of this, students, staff, and visitors should come dressed in clothing suited for changing conditions, including outdoor adventures, animal care, and garden work.
What to Bring:
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Close-toed rubber boots or outdoor shoes that can get messy. This pair of shoes will stay at the farm.
• A change of clothes, appropriate for the weather season. These will be placed in a ziplock bag with your child’s name, and kept at the farm.
• Sunscreen and/or bug repellent (applied at home before arrival)
• Labeled water bottle
• Lunchbox with lunch and snacks
• Backpack containing:
• Student folder
• Textbooks, as needed
• Independent reading books
General Clothing Guidelines
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Dress in layers during colder weather, with animal fiber materials (such as wool) for warmth. In colder months, hats, gloves, and jackets are essential. In warmer weather, lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. Footwear: Rubber boots or shoes made of similar material are required for outdoor activities to maintain sanitation. Students wearing unsuitable shoes will not be permitted in animal enclosures.
Extra Clothing
All students must keep a set of extra clothing, including socks and undergarments, in their backpacks in case of emergencies. Please put them in a gallon ziplock bag that is labeled with your child’s name. Modesty and Practicality: Skirts and dresses are not recommended unless worn with shorts underneath. Shorts should be of a modest length, and clothing should be suitable for the physical activities at the farm. Prohibited Clothing: Clothing with vulgar images, inappropriate text, or offensive graphics is not allowed. Open toed/heeled shoes are not conducive to farm activities and will result in prohibited participation. Our dress code aims to ensure comfort, safety, and cleanliness while maintaining a positive and respectful environment for all students.
Safety
At Idlehurst Learning Collective, we take student safety seriously and view it as both a practical responsibility and a matter of stewardship. We are committed to maintaining a secure, supportive environment through clear policies and thoughtful practices that ensure all students feel safe, respected, and cared for.
All staff members are certified in CPR, First Aid, and AED usage. We conduct comprehensive background checks for all educators and administrative personnel. Access to campus is carefully managed through limited entry points, fencing, and visitor monitoring. Staff maintain communication throughout the day using two-way radios to stay connected during both indoor and outdoor activities.
Arrival and dismissal are conducted through a structured identification process to ensure each student is released to an approved adult. For everyone’s safety, no adult is ever permitted to be alone with a child behind a closed door or out of sight.
Weapons of any kind—including firearms, knives, explosives, or related items—are strictly prohibited on campus. Violation of this policy may result in immediate removal from the school and involvement of law enforcement when necessary.
We are grateful for your partnership in creating a safe and respectful environment where every child can thrive.
Discipline Policy
Idlehurst Learning Collective uses gentle but firm boundaries to guide behavior and promote respect. We believe in redirection, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement.
First offense: Verbal reminder and redirection
Second offense: Temporary removal from activity and Parent Communication
Third offense: Parent communication and Behavior Plan
Severe or repeated behavior (e.g., physical aggression, defiance, or dishonesty) may result in suspension or dismissal.
Idlehurst Learning Collective does not permit the use of corporal punishment under any circumstances. All staff, volunteers, and families are expected to align with this standard to ensure a physically and emotionally safe environment for every student.
Electronic Device Policy
Our goal is to foster meaningful relationships and an abundance of educational opportunities. Personal electronic devices distract from the environment of resources and are not permitted. If a parent needs to reach a student or staff member during school hours, Idlehurst Learning Collective can be reached via telephone at 864-642-8665 or through ClassDojo.
Inclement Weather Policy
Idlehurst Learning Collective operates in all weather conditions—rain, heat, cold, or sunshine. Because our program is primarily outdoors, it’s essential that students come dressed for the elements every day.
In rare cases of extreme or unsafe weather conditions (such as icy roads, high winds, severe storms, or extreme temperatures below freezing), we may delay, cancel, or adjust the school day. These decisions will be communicated promptly through our school communication app and via email.
Due to the multi-age structure and pre-planned academic calendar, canceled days will not be made up or refunded. We reserve the right to adapt our schedule based on safety recommendations and will always prioritize the well-being of our students and staff.
Emergency Response Protocol
At Idlehurst Learning Collective, the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and visitors is a top priority. We have a comprehensive emergency plan in place to ensure that everyone is prepared and protected during unexpected situations. This includes protocols for medical incidents, severe weather, fire, lockdowns, and missing children.
We maintain up-to-date emergency contact information for all students and staff. First Aid kits are available throughout the campus, and our staff is certified in both First Aid and CPR.
Emergency Procedures
Emergency Procedures
Medical Emergency
Severe Weather
Fire or Hazardous Situation
Missing Child
• Staff will assess the situation immediately.
• If the condition is serious or life-threatening, First Aid or CPR will be administered while waiting for emergency responders.
• Parents and the school administrator will be contacted.
• The incident will be documented.
• School will be closed if weather conditions pose a threat to safety (e.g., ice, severe storms, high winds).
• If dangerous weather arises during the day, students will be brought indoors and parents will be contacted for early dismissal.
• In case of fire or indoor hazard, students and staff will evacuate to a designated safe location.
• 911 will be called immediately.
• Attendance will be taken to ensure all students are accounted for.
• Reentry will only occur when cleared by emergency personnel or administration.
• A headcount and immediate area search will be conducted.
• If the child is not found within 5–10 minutes, parents and local authorities will be notified without delay.
Lockdown or Intruder Threat
• Staff will guide students to the nearest secure location (classroom, farm structure, etc.).
• Students will be instructed to stay low, remain quiet, and stay out of sight.
• Authorities will be contacted immediately.
• Students will remain sheltered until an official “all-clear” is issued.
• No student will be released until it is safe to do so.
Sickness Policy
To help keep our community healthy, we ask that students stay home when they are showing signs of illness that would make it difficult to participate in the day’s activities or may pose a risk to others. These symptoms include persistent coughing, sneezing, excessive nasal discharge, fever, red or watery eyes, sore throat, vomiting, or digestive upset.
If a student becomes ill during the school day, we will contact a parent or guardian to pick them up promptly.
• Students must meet the following guidelines before returning to school:
• Fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications (fever is defined as 100.4°F or higher)
• No vomiting for 24 hours and able to tolerate one or two regular meals
• Diarrhea-free for 24 hours without medication (defined as three or more loose stools in a 24-hour period)
• If a student is diagnosed with a contagious illness by a healthcare provider, please notify us so that we may take appropriate steps to inform other families if necessary.
Parent Communication
At Idlehurst Learning Collective, we prioritize clear and consistent communication with our families. We use ClassDojo as our primary platform for announcements, reminders, and day-to-day updates. Each month, families receive a newsletter highlighting classroom activities, curriculum focus areas, and upcoming events. For individual questions or concerns, parents are welcome to reach out to us directly via email or Class Dojo. We value the partnership between home and school and strive to keep families informed, encouraged, and connected throughout the year.
Statement of Faith
We approach education from a faith-informed perspective, drawing wisdom and guidance from the Bible. Our goal is to foster both academic growth and personal character, encouraging students to reflect kindness, integrity, and a sense of purpose in their daily lives. Our community values grace, honesty, and a shared commitment to helping children grow in their faith, serve others, and care for the world around them.
Partnership & Community Expectations
Idlehurst Learning Collective relies on a respectful and cooperative partnership between staff, students, and families. We expect all members of the school community to uphold the school’s values, support its mission, and maintain respectful communication.
Cooperation Clause
A positive and respectful relationship between the school and all family members, including parents, students, and associated individuals. Is essential to fulfilling the school’s educational mission. Should any family member engage in conduct or communication, on or off campus, that disrupts the school community, undermines school policies, or compromises safety, the school reserves the right to restrict involvement or terminate enrollment at its sole discretion. No tuition or fees will be refunded in such cases. The school also retains the right to deny enrollment or re-enrollment at any time.
Arbitration and Dispute Resolution Clause
By enrolling a student at Idlehurst Learning Collective, the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) agree that any dispute arising out of or relating to the student’s enrollment, attendance, educational services, or any aspect of the relationship between the family and the school shall first be addressed through informal resolution. If a resolution cannot be reached, the parties agree to submit the dispute to binding arbitration rather than pursuing legal action in court.
The arbitration will be conducted in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association (or another mutually agreed-upon arbitration body). Each party will bear its own costs and attorney’s fees unless otherwise determined by the arbitrator.
By signing the enrollment agreement, families waive the right to initiate or participate in a lawsuit or class action against Idlehurst Learning Collective in any civil court, except as may be required by law. Acknowledgment and Agreement: I have read and understand the Arbitration and Dispute Resolution Clause above. By signing below, I agree to abide by the terms outlined.
Parent/Guardian Name (Printed): ___________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature: _________________________________ Date: _______________
Student Name (Printed): _________________________________________________
