Hello RTS Families,
One month into 2020 and the Rock Tree Sky community is feeling more vibrant than ever.
I always look forward to this time of year that follows winter break because it is at this time when the RTS community settles into a familial type of familiarity. Children who have been attending RTS since the fall have tuned into the patterns and norms of the culture here. Friendships and connection to the space and the people in it have deepend. And for those folks that are joining us now, you may be seamlessly folded into the flow of our dynamic community. If Rock Tree Sky doesn't already feel like home, it will soon.
In this messenger you will find calendar updates for February, and reflections and photos from January. Also, stay tuned for a new episode of the Rock Tree Sky podcast.
Be well and stay curious,
With love from the Rock Tree Sky Staff
Looking towards February:
Friday February 7th: Parent Makerspace Night 6-8pm
Please join us for an evening of learning, making, and bonding with the RTS Parent Community. Parent Makerspace Night is an annual tradition and time for parents to enjoy the fun of being a learner at Rock Tree Sky. Parents may engage in a variety of offerings and have an opportunity to get to know one another and bond.
Thursday February 13th: Field Trip to Oxnard Recycle Center
Please refer to the email from Natasha for more details
Monday February 17th:RTS Closed in observance of President's Day
Monday February 24-Friday February 28th:Conference Week; 12pm Dismissal for learners *Please refer to email from Natasha for more information and link to survey to schedule your conference.
Reflections on January:
January got off to an energetic start at Rock Tree Sky. After a long holiday break, many families came up to RTS to support the space at our Family Work Day on Saturday January 4th. We are very grateful for all of those who were able to take the time to help take care of our space. Many thanks to you!
And then on the following Saturday many parents came up to engage in the Parent Discussion Group. The conversation that ensued was thoughtful and vulnerable and felt in alignment with the intention to learn and wonder together as conscious parents of homeschoolers and unschoolers. Much appreciation to those who participated in this conversation. And, if you missed it this time there will be another Saturday Discussion Group in March.
During the month of January I (Chrissy) began an exploration in dyeing fabric with natural and locally foraged materials. Throughout the month several learners have joined for various aspects of these experiments, from collecting dye stuff, to weighing mordant. The dyed fabric will serve as decoration for the quiet room, and the experiments will continue next month.
The most exciting activity in the art room this month actually took place outside of the art room...it was resin "painting." Each year Kim guides lessons in resin pouring and each year learners create wondrously imaginative and dimensional pieces we all get to admire.
Many learners have also enjoyed exploring the natural world with Casey. On creek walks, as well as exploring around our campus Casey has supported learners interests in finding and identifying bugs, arachnids, reptiles, and amphibians.
Foul has also been a hot topic this month. Particular, chickens. During the latter portion of January, Natasha facilitated several discussions with learners about rearing chickens and in preparation for the upcoming egg incubation project. Many of our learners do feel deeply connected and concerned about the chickens that we raise. Making agreements about rearing of said chickens is a delicate subject that we are learning to support with compassion and practicality. More updates on our chicken plans to come...