Switching gears from the traditional classroom setting, The Woodlands area is witnessing the advent of a new educational space where learning intertwines with the rustling leaves and whispers of the forest. The Woodlands Forest School, nestled at 8916 West Lane, has announced the unfoldment of its intent to infuse traditional education with a nature-centered philosophy. Starting this fall, the Woodlands expands its roots to include a school that's more than textbooks and four-walled classrooms.

The curriculum is coming to life under the wing of Delis Urdaibay, a name that's not new to the education front. Urdaibay, with hands-on experience in spawning several schools, is about to give the bell schedule a miss to rather embrace the bees' buzz and the chickens' cluck. "Motherhood has been my spiritual journey, and my kids have been the most important teachers in the world," Urdaibay said, reflecting a belief that experiential learning starts from a young age, as quoted in a statement obtained by the Houston Chronicle.

Embracing the green canopy, the school's design plays homage to Froebelian and Waldorf education principles and threads in elements of the Forest School movement which gained traction in the UK during the 90s. Despite the growing pains of any new educational venture, the Woodlands Forest School is determined to stand firmly rooted. The school sets out to serve a range of young minds, from the curious toddlers in 'mommy and me' classes to the bright-eyed elementary schoolers, with a major emphasis on outdoor learning activities balanced with indoor respites.

But this isn't merely a rendezvous in the woods. The school is keen to manifest academics through a hands-on approach, with an accredited curriculum taught by passionate educators – a faculty that includes a beekeeper and a wildlife biologist. The school setting is intended to become a veritable ecosystem of education that not only breeds free thought but also respects the unique pace and style of each child's development. According to the Community Impact interview, Urdaibay emphasized that "Childhood is a sacred stage, and we encourage them to use their imagination."

With tuition ranging from $300 to $500 a month for the youngest group and reaching up to $18,880 per year for elementary students, the Woodlands Forest School clearly aspires to offer a premium educational experience steeped in nature. Applications are eagerly being accepted for a sizeable first class with the school's inaugural open house slated for August 3. For anyone who might want to delve deeper into the Woodlands Forest School's environment and ethos, a visit to their official website would be a good starting point.