Welcome to the Hidden Villa Classroom

"Becoming aware of the relationship of all living things to other living things is the key to knowing ourselves. It is the basis for understanding the intricate web of life. By what means can such experience be brought about? The challenge of the teacher is to set the stage so that this kind of learning can take place." ~ Josephine Duveneck: educator, visionary and co-founder of Hidden Villa.

Hidden Villa's environmental education programs offer guided, hands-on explorations of nature that can inspire awe, curiosity and excitement in your students. These experiences help "set the stage" for important learning - discovering ecological concepts, making connections between farm animals and food, becoming more comfortable in nature and experiencing the power of cooperation, compassion and bravery. As the classroom teacher you are an integral and invaluable partner in this learning process.

A classroom teacher myself, I have come to consider my students' relationship to Hidden Villa a precious teaching tool. The hands-on exploration supports their learning of science standards; the excitement of discovery inspires a wide variety of writing and the curiosity generated motivates academic research and reading. In short, our relationship with Hidden Villa has facilitated the teaching of a range of state-mandated standards. In addition, I have had the joy of witnessing my students' confidence and compassion grow and their ecological understanding deepen.

I hope that some of the information, ideas, and suggestions presented here will provide inspiration and support you to make your Hidden Villa field trip an important teaching opportunity in your classroom.