A Day in the Life at The Academic Orchard:

2025 - 2026 School Year 🌿

At The Academic Orchard, each day blends rigorous academics, hands-on learning, and outdoor exploration on our five-acre campus in Leander, Texas.

TAO teachers serve as both expert instructors and mentors, modeling curiosity, reflection, and mastery while guiding students in independent, thoughtful learning.

Our approach is Montessori-inspired, model-based, and focused on preparation for life.

• 8:45–9:15 AM: Nature Journals

  • Students start their day outdoors observing plants, insects, and animals, recording detailed observations in their journals.

  • Guided by Laws Guide to Nature Journaling, students develop deep observation skills and track the flora, fauna, and weather patterns of Central Texas.

  • Journaling fosters reflection, attention to detail, and consistent writing habits.

• 9:15–10:15 AM & 10:25–11:25 AM: Math and English Language Arts

  • Students rotate between math and ELA lessons tailored to their level, from upper elementary through high school.

  • High school courses this year include Algebra 1 and Geometry; with advanced students taking Austin Community College courses in Calculus and Statistics.

  • Teachers use a variety of instructional manipulatives and curriculum resources to make abstract concepts tangible and support differentiated learning.

  • ELA lessons focus on reading comprehension, literary analysis, grammar practice, and consistent written work.

  • Students receive expert feedback on written work to prepare them for future careers and real-world communication.

  • Teachers employ a variety of instructional strategies, including direct instruction, guided inquiry, modeling of critical thinking, problem-solving, using manipulatives, and scaffolding to develop effective communication skills.

  • Short outdoor breaks refresh students between classes.

• 11:30–12:30 PM: Lunch, Recess, and Literature

  • Upper elementary students eat lunch from 11:30–noon, then enjoy recess or reading.

  • Middle and high school students focus on literature from 11:30–noon, followed by lunch until 12:30.

  • Literature explores complex themes and encourages critical thinking and personal reflection.

• 12:30–2:00 PM: 2025 - 2026 Science and History

  • High school students focus on Biology.

  • Younger students study Life Sciences and Earth Sciences.

  • History is centered on World History, with students deeply exploring key events, eras, and concepts throughout the year.

  • Lessons use models, experiments, manipulatives, and other curriculum resources to enhance understanding.

  • Teachers instruct, guide, and model careful analysis, inquiry, and synthesis of knowledge.

• 2:00–3:15 PM: Electives

  • Students choose from makerspace, gardening, music, theater, jewelry design, cooking, art, entrepreneurship, and more.

  • Electives provide opportunities for exploration, skill-building, and reflection.

  • Teachers model curiosity, mastery, and leadership while guiding students toward independence and responsibility.

• 3:15–3:30 PM: Clean-Up and Pickup

  • Students tidy their spaces, practicing responsibility and care for their environment.

  • Pickup occurs at 3:30 PM.

Overall Philosophy

• At The Academic Orchard, students experience a hands-on, Montessori-inspired education where every subject challenges learners of all levels. Mornings begin with nature journaling, observing plants, insects, and animals, and continue with rich, in-depth lessons across math, science, and humanities. Teachers guide, model, and provide manipulatives and resources, helping students develop critical thinking, independence, and practical skills for life.

• Daily schedule runs Monday through Thursday, with Fridays reserved for student interest activities away from campus including sports, theater, college courses, internships, jobs, reflection and once a semesterly student-led conferences.