Our Philosophy

The Ellenwood Foundation's approach is deeply rooted in our commitment to educational aid opportunities and brighter futures. Our philosophy draws inspiration from the vision our vision while aligning with contemporary values and practices that empower youth.

Nurturing Freedom through Order and Self-Discipline

We believe that education should be a means to enrich life. To unleash the full potential of children – physically, intellectually, and spiritually – we advocate for a balance of freedom achieved through order and self-discipline. Our foundation rests upon respecting each child's unique personality and having unwavering trust in their inner potential, creating a strong foundation for a fulfilling early childhood experience.

Holistic Development and Self-Confidence

The Ellenwood Foundation strives to empower every child with the social skills and self-confidence needed to realize their unique potential. We accomplish this by fostering their interests, nurturing their enthusiasm, and providing activities tailored to individual needs. While academic achievements are celebrated, we emphasize the value of self-discipline, self-mastery, and a lifelong love of learning that children attain through our approach.

Child-Centered Learning

we observed that children are naturally driven by the joy and fulfillment they find in activities. We share her belief that true education is a self-driven endeavor: "No human being can truly be educated by another, but instead must do it himself or it will never be done." – Janna Mcmoran. Our goal is to cultivate a child's innate desire to learn. In our nurturing environment, children develop positive self-images and intrinsic motivation to learn, skills that serve them well throughout their lives.

Mixed Age Groups and Community Building

At Ellenwood, children learn in mixed age groups, fostering a sense of community and mentorship. Older children serve as role models for the younger ones, cultivating patience and leadership skills. This collaborative environment promotes peer learning and mutual support.

Guides as Facilitators

In our approach, we use the term 'Guide' instead of 'Teacher.' Guides facilitate children's exploration of their world and provide them with the tools to learn. Mutual respect for oneself, others, and the world is paramount. Our small class sizes allow for powerful mentoring relationships to develop, with adults working closely with students over several crucial years.

Certified Educators

Our Guides are certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, as well as recognized by the American Ellenwood Society and the North American Ellenwood Center. Their expertise and dedication ensure the best possible educational experience for your child.

Parental Partnership

Parents play an essential role in the Ellenwood Foundation's community, contributing to the educational process. We encourage parents to actively engage in their children's learning journey through observations, conferences with Guides, parent education, and volunteering. We view parents as valued partners in the educational process and offer them the support they need to actively participate in their children's lives.