FAQ
What ages do you serve?
Free Range Farm School currently offers programs for a variety of age groups, ranging from preschool through teens.
Do students interact with animals?
Yes! Students regularly have opportunities to learn about and interact with farm animals as part of our hands-on educational experience.
Animal interactions are always supervised, age-appropriate, and safety-focused.
What charter schools are you approved through?
We are currently approved with Mission Vista, River Springs Charter School, Sage Oak, Taylion Academy, and Cabrillo Point Academy.
Please note:
- Discounts cannot be combined with charter funding.
- Some charter schools have monthly funding limits.
- Any tuition amount exceeding your charter’s approved maximum will automatically be charged to the card on file.
- It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to confirm available charter funding and submit purchase orders in a timely manner.
If you would like us to pursue approval with your charter school, please contact your charter directly and let us know as well.
Can I use charter funds for registration fees?
Due to the nature of our program, registration fees are due upfront and cannot be processed through charter schools.
Do you offer discounts or financial assistance?
Yes! We offer tiered volunteer discounts for both new and returning volunteers.
We also offer limited financial assistance opportunities for qualifying families. Please contact us for more information regarding scholarship availability.
Please note: Financial assistance and discounts cannot be applied toward tuition paid with charter funds.
Can I stay with my child during classes?
Safety and security are very important to us at Free Range Farm School.
Parents who wish to remain on campus during our daytime programs may do so by becoming an approved volunteer, which includes a background check process.
Our Wednesday evening family worship nights are designed as family participation events rather than drop-off programs.
Can I add or drop days during the school year?
Yes! Adding days is based on class availability.
If you need to withdraw from a program, we request a 30-day written notice.
I have no farm experience. Can I still volunteer?
Absolutely! Many of our volunteers have little or no farm experience when they begin.
Most volunteers serve as group leaders and spend the year building meaningful relationships with the same students each week. Other volunteer opportunities may include:
- Check-in
- Games
- Worship
- Safety
- Events
- Media
- Special projects
We love creating opportunities for families to be involved in our community.
What curriculum do you use?
For our core academic programs, we use The Good and the Beautiful curriculum for Language Arts and Math.
We love this curriculum because it works beautifully within a hybrid homeschool model and allows families to continue lessons at home between Farm School days.
Families may purchase printed curriculum directly through The Good and the Beautiful website, or many materials may also be downloaded and printed for free through their website.
In addition to core curriculum, students will participate in:
- Agriculture and farm learning
- Reading Club
- Animal Husbandry
- U.S. Constitution studies
- Hands-on science units
- Nature study
- Practical life skills
- Leadership and character development
Detailed curriculum pacing guides and placement information will be provided prior to the start of the school year.
What should students bring to Farm School?
Registration fees include a t-shirt and classroom materials.
Students should also bring:
- A reusable water bottle
- Closed-toed shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- A hat or sunscreen recommended for sunny days
Because we are an active farm and outdoor program, students should expect to get a little messy sometimes!
My child has special needs. Can they attend your program?
We approach every situation individually to ensure we are a good fit for both the student and the program environment.
While we strive to create an inclusive and welcoming environment, we are currently limited in our ability to provide specialized one-on-one support or accommodations for all needs.
We would love to learn more about your child and discuss whether our program may be a good fit for your family. Please feel free to contact us to schedule a conversation with our director.
What is your behavior policy?
We strive to create a safe, respectful, and encouraging environment for all students, families, volunteers, and staff.
Students are expected to treat others, animals, property, and instructors with kindness and respect. Ongoing behavioral concerns may result in meetings with parents or possible dismissal from the program if safety or group dynamics are affected.