San Juan Nature Academy for Homeschoolers

Nature-Based Homeschool Enrichment for Southwest Colorado

Looking for an inspiring alternative to traditional classrooms? SJMA’s Homeschool Enrichment Program offers a unique blend of outdoor science education, wilderness skills, and play-based learning—all rooted in the stunning landscapes of Southwest Colorado.

Designed for homeschool families seeking structured, standards-aligned learning in the outdoors, our program fosters critical thinking, resilience, leadership, and teamwork through hands-on exploration and discovery. Students build practical skills, deepen their understanding of the natural world, and develop confidence through meaningful time in nature.

What Makes Our Program Different?

Outdoor-First Learning

We spend every day outside—no matter the weather. From snowshoeing in winter to building shelters in spring, nature is both our classroom and our teacher.

Hands-On Science & Environmental Education

Students explore earth science, ecology, and environmental stewardship through place-based investigations tied to state standards.

Outdoor Skills & Independence

From fire-building to orienteering, students gain practical wilderness skills while building confidence and resilience.

Small Groups, Big Connection

Our 6:1 student-to-educator ratio ensures personalized learning and fosters close-knit group dynamics across age ranges.

A Balanced Approach to Learning

Each day combines:

  • Structured academics grounded in environmental science
  • Guided play and creative challenges
  • Unstructured exploration to spark curiosity and independence

Who It’s For

  1. Homeschool families in the Durango area seeking a nature-based enrichment program
  2. Children who thrive with movement, inquiry, and real-world learning
  3. Families not currently enrolled in another funded homeschool enrichment program (eligibility rules apply)

Program Details

Locations: Various public lands in Southwest Colorado, the Durango Nature Center, and more!

Ages: Mixed-age groups, K–6 (only 26 total spots available)

Schedule: Weekly on Wednesdays 8:00-3:30 during the school year

Staff: Led by licensed educators with years of outdoor and environmental education experience. Read more about our education team here.

Curriculum: Aligned to Colorado standards, with emphasis on local ecology, stewardship, and science

Cost

Free for homeschool students unless they are receiving state funds for other programs.

Transportation fee of $80/semester.

Ready to Learn More?

Check out the San Juan Nature Academy Presentation given to the attendees of the parent info meeting.

Here is our School Calendar including start/end dates, breaks, and important program-wide events.

Here is our Homeschool Parent Handbook which includes important info about gear, policies, and communication.

Registration

Before enrolling, we encourage you to reach out with questions or to check eligibility (especially if you are already enrolled or plan to enroll in another homeschool enrichment program).

If you are interested or have questions, please contact our Education Director, Adriana, at astimax@sjma.org

Register Now!

Sample Daily Schedule

8:00 am – Drop off for those being transported in SJMA van
8:15 am –  Load-up and head to the day’s location
8:45 am – Van riders arrive & Parent drop off of those not in the van
9:00 am – Morning circle
9:20 am – Morning lesson/ activity part 1
10:10 am – Snack
10:30 am – Morning lesson/ activity part 2
12:00 pm – Lunch
12:25 pm – Free play
12:40 pm – Group game
1:10 pm – Afternoon electives (nature journaling, themed game or craft, self-exploration, hike, etc.)
2:30 pm – Afternoon circle
3:00 pm – Pick-up at location then head back to Durango
3:30 pm – Pick-up in Durango

Monthly Topics (subject to change)

September: Leave no Trace
October: Nature’s Bounty
November: Rock Cycle
December: Fire and water
January: Surviving and thriving in Winter
February: Snow Science
March: Weather and Climate
April: Web of Life
May: Biodiversity