We know Children are Independent Sovereign Creative Humans

Raintree School | St. Louis Forest School

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We take opportunity, bottle it up, let it build, and release it every day in every classroom at our small school called Raintree.

Nurturing Young Minds Through Nature and Innovation

Reggio Emilia-Inspired Forest School

At Raintree School, we embrace the Reggio Emilia philosophy, fostering an environment where children lead their own learning journeys. Our expansive forest campus inspires exploration, creativity, and a love for discovery through hands-on, project-based learning experiences.

A school where nature sparks joy.

Place-based Education with a Focus on Citzenship

We believe meaningful education begins with exploring and caring for the world around us. Our place-based approach connects children to their community and environment, instilling a sense of responsibility and civic mindfulness. By contributing to the greater good, students develop courage and compassion.

Learning that roots them in purpose.

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Foundation is Everything

Teaching With Purpose

We cultivate adventurous, generous thinkers, blending curiosity-driven learning with deep connections to nature and community.

  • Design Thinking
  • Reggio-Inspired
  • Forest School
  • Citizenship
  • Place Based Education

Opening Hearts and Minds, Together

Fostering Lifelong Curioousity

A vibrant community rooted in collaboration and respect, where teachers shape evolving curricula around children’s ideas, fostering resilience, creativity, and deep connections to the world.

Learn More

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Every Step of the Way

Learn With Us

You’ve done your homework—Forest School, Reggio approach, Citizen Science, local food...you know it all. Those inspiring quirks make Raintree the right fit for your family. Raintree seeks students from diverse backgrounds who value the unique benefits of our small forest school.

Rooted in nature and inquiry, Raintree nurtures capable thinkers through a child-centered, small-class approach to learning.

12+Years Inspiring

10Students Per Class

150+Families Served

The Raintree Difference

Our Philosophy

Raintree School fosters child-led learning through nature, emphasizing curiosity, resilience, and community engagement.

  • Child Centered Learning

    Children guide their learning, fostering independence and critical thinking.

  • Connection to Others

    Place-based learning connects students to communities, fostering civic responsibility.

  • Local Foods

    Locally sourced meals teach sustainability, health, and connection to the food systems and the environment.

  • 20+

    hours weekly nature immersion

  • 1:8

    teacher student ratio

  • 5

    annual community projects

Well Reviewed, and Trusted Credbility

Hear from those who see the joy, growth, and connection that come from a learning community rooted in nature and curiosity.

Programs for the Most Important Stages

Our programs nurture curiosity and a love for learning, offering Nursery, Preschool, Pre-K, Elementary, and Summer Interlude. Each is crafted to inspire creativity, exploration, and a connection to the natural world through hands-on, age-appropriate experiences.

View All Our Programs

The Forest Schooling Download

Our Resources

Discover a New Way to Educate your Child

Explore our curated collection of articles, books, and films that reflect our educational philosophy, offering insights into child development, nature-based learning, and community engagement.
Explore Our Resource Library

Articles

Features

Books

Films

The Forest Never Stops

School Calendar & Events

Stay connected with our vibrant community through the school calendar, featuring events like seasonal festivals, family picnics, workshops, open houses, and important updates like early closures. oin us to experience the joy and discovery that define our school.

See All Events

Parent Potluck

Get to know the others parents who share similar values.

Plant a Garden Day

Help us plant a garden in the back! Free Lettuce for everyone.

Dance Off

It's important we keep active and lively during the winter. Join us for a Dance off.

It takes a special teacher to be a Raintree teacher.

Our Faculty

With dedication and creativity, our certified faculty guide children through their most vital academic and social growth years.
Learn About our Faculty