Willow Wind is a K–12 public alternative program sponsored by the Ashland School District. The mission of the Willow Wind Community Learning Center is to support the educational vision of families in a multi-age environment.  We value unique learning styles and honor the gifts of the whole child. The program provides classes, tutorials, curriculum resources and support designed to support the diverse educational philosophies embraced by the families enrolled, while supporting the state and federal educational standards.  Class offerings are created each semester and may cover subjects such as history, math, science, language arts, music, drama, physical education, art, gardening and second language. 

A fundamental element of the Willow Wind program is our belief that in addition to academic challenges, students should have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of extra curricular experiences that foster personal development and responsibility. Together with families, we encourage students to be curious, pursue their passions and maintain a genuine love of learning.

Willow Wind serves self-motivated learners who are able to define their interests, understand their learning styles and take charge of their own education with the guidance of a teacher who is familiar with grade level expectations. Students must have the ability to focus and produce work during unstructured time and easily transition between multiple teachers and groups of students. Willow Wind is designed to serve the needs of students who thrive in a learning environment that encourages student choice and provides opportunities for students to be actively involved in developing learning options. With choices comes responsibility and students must take responsibility for their learning and behavior. Students attending Willow Wind must participate in a manner that reflects their desire to be here. We have high expectations of students – both academically and as members of the community. 

The full-time alternative program at Willow Wind is the Parent Partner Program. This is a partnership between the school district and parents. Families meet with a teacher consultant and together design an individual program for each student, using the resources of Willow Wind, the Ashland School District, the family and the community.

Willow Wind also serves part-time students and home schooling families. Classes, curriculum materials, social opportunities and networking support are available to families who choose to home school their children.

Both of the Willow Wind programs are designed to allow families to combine elements of public education with parental choice. Parents of students enrolled at Willow Wind must have a real desire to be actively involved in the education of their children. The program is designed to be a partnership between families and public school. Our program values personal dignity, empathy and respect for the earth and all living things.

Click on the menu to the left to find out detailed information about our full-time and part-time programs, view the parent/student handbook and view the 2009-2010 calendar.