For families embracing homeschooling, finding the right balance between home-based learning and enriching social and educational experiences can be a key to success. Leaves Of Learning in Deer Park, Ohio, offers a distinctive solution, blending the flexibility of homeschooling with the benefits of a structured, engaging learning environment. Far from being a contradiction, this innovative program provides homeschool students with a wealth of opportunities to deepen their knowledge, explore their passions, and connect with a community of like-minded learners. Leaves of Learning stands out as a beacon for families seeking to enrich their homeschooling journey.
The Origin Story: Nurturing a Vision for Homeschooling Families
Leaves of Learning emerged from the personal experience of Diana Osborn, a homeschooling mother who, nineteen years ago, felt the need for more structured enrichment for her own children. Initially describing herself as a “reluctant homeschooling mom,” Osborn recognized the limitations of solely home-based education when it came to social interaction and diverse learning experiences. Driven by the desire to create a regular, engaging program where homeschoolers could build lasting friendships and expand their educational horizons, she launched a one-day-a-week enrichment program. Starting with just 33 children, this initiative quickly resonated with the homeschooling community and blossomed into what Leaves of Learning is today.
There’s a whole lot of mixin’ going on in the “Art (ages 9-12)” class! The “Complex Color Wheel” project is gathering…
Posted by Leaves of Learning (Cincinnati, OH) on Tuesday, November 24, 2015
“People kept asking for more,” Osborn explained, now the program’s director. “They said their kids were so inspired – and it gave them a day off from teaching!” What began as a few enrichment classes organically grew into a comprehensive program, catering to the diverse needs of homeschooling families in the region.
A Rich Tapestry of Learning Opportunities
Leaves of Learning has evolved into a thriving educational hub, now offering over 100 diverse classes to approximately 250 students ranging from preschool age (3 years old) to high school (18 years old). Approximately half of these students attend part-time, supplementing their core homeschooling curriculum with specialized enrichment classes. The other half are enrolled full-time, leveraging Leaves of Learning as their primary educational program while still maintaining their status as homeschoolers under Ohio state regulations.
Housed in the former St. John the Evangelist School building, Leaves of Learning provides ample space and a welcoming atmosphere for its unique approach. The program’s core philosophy centers on student choice and individualized learning paths. Students are empowered to select classes that genuinely spark their interest, fostering intrinsic motivation and a love for learning.
“The kids are excited to be here. They’re excited about learning,” Osborn emphasizes. “Kids aren’t learning for a test; they are learning for the true reason of learning, and that is because it’s a gift and it expands your world.” This philosophy cultivates a learning environment where curiosity and exploration are prioritized over rote memorization and standardized testing.
Passionate Educators at the Heart of the Program
The strength of Leaves of Learning lies not only in its flexible curriculum but also in its dedicated and passionate teaching staff. Comprised of 40 part-time instructors, the faculty is primarily selected based on their expertise, experience, and genuine enthusiasm for their subject matter. While many teachers hold teaching certifications, Osborn stresses that passion and subject-specific expertise are paramount.
“I think that is the reason we’re successful: because our teachers are amazing. They aren’t generalists that say, ‘I could teach math.’ The math teacher really loves math,” Osborn states. This dedication to subject matter passion translates into engaging and inspiring classroom experiences for the students.
A Hands-On, Discussion-Fueled Learning Environment
Stepping into Leaves of Learning is a departure from the traditional school setting. Student artwork adorns the hallways and ceilings, creating a vibrant and creative atmosphere. Classrooms are intentionally designed to foster interaction and discussion, replacing rows of desks with tables, comfortable couches, floor pillows, and overstuffed chairs. Discussion is the cornerstone of most classes, encouraging active participation and critical thinking. With class sizes capped at a dozen students and some classes being even smaller, students benefit from personalized attention and a close-knit learning community. Classes typically run from September to May, providing a consistent and structured academic year.
Preparing Homeschoolers for Future Success
Leaves of Learning’s commitment to student success extends beyond enrichment and passion-based learning. Padgy Schrank, the receptionist and parent of a program graduate, highlights the program’s comprehensive offerings, including core subjects like math, science, history, and language arts, alongside diverse enrichment classes such as cooking, musical theater, astrophysics, and more. Her son, Alex, a graduate of Leaves of Learning, received a scholarship to The George Washington University, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for higher education.
Schrank emphasizes the individualized and hands-on approach: “It’s more individualized, and I liked that it was hands-on,” Schrank said. “He could move around the classroom and share his opinion in class. It was a lot more of a relaxed atmosphere. The teachers are very approachable.”
The transition to homeschooling can initially feel daunting, as Schrank recalls, “We didn’t know where home schooling would take us and how it would work throughout his education. We were worried about getting into college, but it was no problem.”
Leaves of Learning actively addresses college preparation, employing a counselor who guides students through the college selection and application process. Impressively, 92% of Leaves of Learning graduates pursue college, and 40% go on to graduate studies, showcasing the program’s strong academic foundation and college readiness support.
Embracing Homeschooling with Confidence and Community
As homeschooling becomes increasingly mainstream and accepted, Leaves of Learning provides a valuable resource for families seeking a balanced and enriching educational experience. Assistant director Christie Sawyer aptly summarizes, “It’s not for everyone, but it really works well for some.” For families in the Deer Park and Cincinnati area considering homeschooling or looking to enhance their current homeschooling approach, Leaves of Learning offers a unique and compelling model – one that nurtures a love of learning, fosters community, and prepares students for a bright future.
FRENCH CLASS CHEESE TASTING!The French II & III students (age 14+) expanded their culinary tastes and French…
Posted by Leaves of Learning (Cincinnati, OH) on Monday, November 23, 2015
