Is traditional school the only option? Not anymore.
Today’s families have more choices than ever before — from nature-based learning and hands-on STEM education to time-tested classical programs and creative models like Reggio Emilia. If you’re wondering what path fits your child best, this guide will help you explore the most talked-about education philosophies shaping schools across the country.
Whether you’re starting kindergarten or considering a switch, here’s what you need to know about the modern education landscape.
Click here to read our local guide of school options in the Fargo-Moorhead area.
🚀 STEM & STEAM Education
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and its arts-inclusive cousin STEAM are built around hands-on, real-world problem solving. Students explore coding, robotics, engineering challenges, and science experiments designed to spark curiosity and build 21st-century skills.
Pros:
Encourages innovation and critical thinking
Prepares kids for future careers
Often project-based and tech-friendly
Consider if: Your child loves building, solving puzzles, or asking “how does that work?”
Whether you’re starting kindergarten or considering a switch, here’s what you need to know about the modern education landscape.
🌿 Nature-Based & Outdoor Schools
Inspired by forest schools and environmental education, nature-based programs prioritize outdoor exploration and learning through the natural world. Classrooms may be in the woods, the garden, or a mix of indoor/outdoor environments.
Pros:
Fosters resilience, curiosity, and independence
Boosts physical health and mental wellness
Great for sensory and movement-based learners
Consider if: Your child thrives outside, loves to explore, or struggles in traditional indoor settings.
🎨 Reggio Emilia & Creative Learning
Reggio Emilia is an arts- and inquiry-based model that sees the child as a capable, curious explorer. Learning is often child-led, documented in portfolios, and expressed through dozens of creative “languages” like sculpture, painting, or movement.
Pros:
Develops emotional intelligence and self-expression
Honors creativity and collaboration
Great for early learners
Consider if: Your child is imaginative, empathetic, or loves storytelling and visual arts.
🏛️ Classical Education
Classical education focuses on the Trivium: grammar (facts), logic (analysis), and rhetoric (communication). It emphasizes structure, memorization, classical texts, and Socratic discussion.
Pros:
Deep academic foundation
Strong in writing, critical thinking, and debate
Often uses Latin and history-based learning
Consider if: You value rigor, discipline, and traditional academic structure.
🧩 Montessori
Montessori schools emphasize independence, self-pacing, and concrete materials. Mixed-age classrooms allow kids to learn from one another, and hands-on tools teach abstract concepts in a physical way.
Pros:
Builds confidence and concentration
Encourages intrinsic motivation
Structured, yet flexible
Consider if: Your child prefers working alone or needs more self-paced freedom.
🧠 Acton Academy & Learner-Driven Schools
Part of a growing movement, learner-driven schools like Acton Academy empower students to take ownership of their learning through quests (projects), Socratic discussions, and goal tracking. These schools combine elements of project-based, classical, and entrepreneurial education.
Pros:
Fosters independence, accountability, and self-discovery
Promotes deep engagement with learning
Prepares kids for life, not just tests
Consider if: You want your child to be both curious and courageous — and to lead their own journey. Click here to find an Acton Academy near you.
💡 Which Model Fits Your Family?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach — and that’s the beauty of it. Think about your child’s personality, your family’s values, and the kind of learning environment that would help them thrive. Whether it’s nature-based or STEM-focused, project-driven or classical, what matters most is finding a school that fits your child, not the other way around. Click here for questions you may want to answer as you search for private schools in Fargo or Moorhead.
🏫 Want to See It in Action?
At Odyssey, we draw inspiration from many of these models — combining learner-driven education, hands-on projects, outdoor time, and critical thinking. Our learners build the skills they need to thrive now and in the future. Want to see what a day at Odyssey looks like? Click here.
Curious how it works? Schedule a visit or explore our other blog posts to keep learning.
