Are you considering escaping to the mountains to raise your family away from the hustle and bustle of big cities? With all of the unprecedented changes we are seeing from social movements to epidemics, along with increased ability to work remotely; many families are craving the solace and seclusion found in beautiful Big Sky. But what does moving to Big Sky mean for your children?
As a former school board member and parent of two children in Big Sky, through its many stages and changes, I can give first-hand advice to any parents wondering if this is the right step for their kids. Big Sky offers two different education options, the Big Sky School District and the Discovery Academy.
The Big Sky School District encompasses Ophir School and Lone Peak High School which are the longest-established public school options in Big Sky. These are great options for parents who want to make sure their children become more integrated in the small community. In rural Montana towns like Big Sky, public schools often garner private school experiences due to their small student body. This allows students more opportunities to engage in school experiences, such as sports and clubs, that they might not have the ability to join in larger city public school districts. They also recently integrated an IB curriculum to give each student an additional edge when preparing to apply to colleges. On top of offering a private-school experience as a public school, Ophir/Lone Peak are known for their nature-focused curricular approach. In elementary and middle school, students have the opportunity to embark on Nordic and downhill skiing days, as well as local field trips and expeditions. Lone Peak High School offers yearly expeditions within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, local field trips and field research, and downhill skiing days as well. Imagine your 4th grader coming home from the famous “Expedition Yellowstone” experience where students spend a week in Yellowstone National Park learning about geysers, wolves, and bears, Oh My! The Big Sky School District absolutely offers a one-of-a-kind educational experience that your family will cherish.
If you are looking for an even more personalized educational experience for your children, the Discovery Academy is another schooling option with a Montessori-inspired educational approach. This allows for a student-driven collaborative learning process where students progress at their own pace. It also allows for a continuous education with school stretching into summer terms. This individual-based program also involves community integration with its local and global service projects. Personally, I have had many friends and family members who have sent their children to the Discovery Academy with fantastic results.
Every child needs a different approach, and I am proud to be a part of a community that offers two very different, yet equally successful schooling programs. In any case, your family will be well accommodated if you choose to make Big Sky your home. I am excited to introduce you to all that Big Sky has to offer. Our small town is excited to meet you; the mountains are calling!