Our adolescent program is rooted in hands-on, experiential learning and meaningful work. Students engage in real-world problem solving, project-based learning, and community-centered study, while pairing the program with academic pathways that fit their needs and goals.
For families who desire an accredited academic option, Meridian coordinates with Bridgemont International School. Other academic pathways, including homeschool curricula, online programs, or College Credit Plus, may also be appropriate depending on a family’s circumstances.
Monday–Thursday: Academics + Erdkinder
The daily rhythm blends a morning work cycle with academic study (including live online coursework or independent work), followed by extended Erdkinder (land and community) work outdoors. Classroom time includes researching, planning, marketing and managing our micro farm, utilizing the Micro Business for Teens curriculum.
Students engage in Socratic-style small group meetings, guided by an adolescent teacher. This meaningful discussion around projects and tasks is an essential component of our real-life, responsibility-driven curriculum.
Regular visits to the local library provide access to research materials and a small makerspace, supporting project planning, documentation, and design work. As projects evolve, we schedule field studies with community organizations and small businesses that connect directly to current work.
Land & Community Work
Land time includes preparing, planting, tending, and harvesting across multiple growing seasons. Our inaugural class will prepare and plant the first seeds at Mt Washington Community Garden. Subsequent growth will be evaluated and plans will adjust as necessary. Students also participate in cultural studies including ecology, biology, and environmental science at nearby 125-acre Stanbery Park.
Field and Forest Fridays (optional)
Two to four Fridays per month are reserved for optional field studies, community service projects, and forest exploration. In addition to ecological learning, these days prioritize time in nature for movement, social connection, and play. Unstructured outdoor experiences are an important part of adolescent development and help students build resilience, confidence, and a lasting relationship with the natural world.
Market Days
Market Days are scheduled throughout the growing and harvest seasons. Students prepare products, set up at local venues, and manage on-site sales with the long-term goal of developing a part-time physical storefront or full-time online shop.
Throughout the program, curriculum emerges from real work, responsibility, and community life rather than from predetermined subject silos.