Discovery Education at Lava Hot Springs Academy is a standards-based program that connects academic learning to the real world through projects, outdoor experiences, and strong community partnerships. All instruction is aligned with Idaho Content Standards and designed to help students apply reading, writing, math, science, and critical-thinking skills in meaningful ways.
A key component of Discovery Education is using the natural environment as an extension of the classroom. Students learn through carefully planned, hands-on experiences that build independence, responsibility, and problem-solving skills while deepening academic understanding.
Discovery Education Schedule
- January week 2 – Makers- a week of innovative building/STEM challenges
- January week 3 – Problem Solvers- a week of tackling real-world problems with innovative solutions
- January week 4 – Creativity Lab- a week of Rube Goldberg Machine design
- February week 1 – TBD
- February week 2 – Random Acts of Kindness
- February week 3 & 4 – Young Authors’ Workshop
- March – Young Authors’ Workshop
Young Authors’ Showcase Night
Students write, illustrate, and publish books for a special parents’ night - April – Heritage Skills
- May – Sports: Golf Skills
- Learning Rooted in Place and Standards
Discovery Education projects are intentionally designed to support academic standards while connecting students to the local community and environment. Whether students are studying ecosystems, local history, entrepreneurship, or applied science, lessons are grounded in grade-level standards and assessed using our standards-based grading system. Parents can clearly see how outdoor and project-based experiences connect directly to academic learning. - Forest School–Inspired Experiences
Forest School learning allows students to develop confidence and practical skills through structured outdoor instruction. Activities may include learning traditional woodcraft, studying ecology and land stewardship, building simple tools or materials, and practicing safe, age-appropriate outdoor skills. Students may also learn how to safely build and manage small instructional fires as part of science, ecology, or traditional living skills instruction.
All Forest School experiences are carefully supervised, age-appropriate, and purposefully tied to learning goals. Students progress gradually, beginning with basic skills and moving forward as they demonstrate readiness and responsibility. - Community Experts and Real-World Learning
Discovery Education emphasizes learning from local experts who bring real-world knowledge into student experiences. Farmers, outdoor recreation specialists, small business owners, artists, and tradespeople help students understand how academic skills are used in everyday life. These partnerships enrich instruction and help students see themselves as capable contributors to their community. - Outdoor Recreation, Agriculture, and Entrepreneurship
Our location allows students to engage in outdoor recreation and agricultural learning that strengthens both academic and life skills. Students may explore food systems, sustainable practices, environmental science, and land management, while also participating in entrepreneurial projects such as student business fairs or applied problem-solving challenges. These experiences build collaboration, creativity, and responsibility while reinforcing classroom learning. - Safety and Supervision
Student safety is always our top priority. All Discovery Education and Forest School activities follow clear safety protocols, are led by trained staff, and occur in small, closely supervised groups. Tools, materials, and outdoor activities are introduced gradually, with clear instruction and expectations. Parents are informed in advance and provide written permission for participation. - A Balanced Approach
Discovery Education and Forest School learning do not replace core academics. Instead, they enhance classroom instruction by giving students meaningful opportunities to apply what they are learning. This balanced approach supports academic growth, student engagement, and confidence—while maintaining high standards and clear accountability.
At Lava Hot Springs Academy, Discovery Education reflects our belief that learning is strongest when it is connected, purposeful, and grounded in both academics and experience.
Why Families Value Discovery Education
- Keeps learning aligned to Idaho standards
- Makes academics relevant and engaging
- Builds confidence, responsibility, and independence
- Connects students to their community and environment
- Supports hands-on learners while maintaining academic rigor