Loose Leaf Notes

The following is a press release on the new Blue Mountain School that my husband Joe Klein (pictured center) is director of. It is interspersed with photos of a teen mixer that took place in May for potential students. Since then, Ezekiel Fugate, has been hired as a lead teacher and in depth story appeared in The Floyd Press, which you can read HERE.

A new alternative high school that empowers youth to live out a values-based and purpose-driven lifestyle will begin classes this fall under the direction of Licensed Professional Counselor, Joe Klein. The Blue Mountain High School (BMHS) will be located at the Floyd EcoVillage and will be a welcoming and inclusive place for teens from all backgrounds to receive a contemplative, progressive and place-based education that nurtures the body, mind and soul.

The BMHS curriculum integrates academic disciplines with hands-on service learning and entrepreneurial projects to promote self-awareness, respect and reverence for life, financial and ecological literacy, critical thinking and wise decision making skills. Every student will be supported to develop a personalized education plan and receive regular career pathways counseling. Self-directed work habits will be fostered through a mix of independent study and teacher lead courses with small class size.

The focus on individual development will be balanced with work in teams and service activities that help teen-aged students feel connected to something greater than themselves. BMHS students will learn first-hand how the way to happiness, meaning and fulfillment in life goes deeper than chasing or achieving material success.

Students who plan to apply for college will be helped to stand out in the admissions process by compiling an impressive portfolio of projects completed as well as receiving strong support for SAT practice and achieving Advanced Placement (AP) credits. Students who are passionate to explore a field of work, art or music will be connected with local mentors and apprentice opportunities.

Host families may also be needed for students from other areas that may apply to BMHS so contact Joe if you may be able to host a teen Sept 1- June 1. Check out their new webpage HERE.  Joe can be contacted at 540-745-4434 or at  joe@bluemountainschool.net for more information.

Read a Floyd Press story on the school HERE.