Image courtesy of the Vernon Oak Elementary website

By Liam Verster

Independent School Proposed for Vernon

Independent school looking to blend education and nature in Vernon

Nov 5, 2025 | 1:54 PM

Space is being sought for a new independent school in Vernon.

The founding team, of which no specific individual was identified, of the proposed Vernon Oak Elementary are looking for a space to build the school that can also incorporate a nature element into the educational programs, and are seeking a location in Vernon to set up their learning space.

“Our vision is to create a small, caring school community where children can thrive — emotionally, socially, and academically,” the Vernon Oak Elementary founding team said in an email to Vernon Matters.

“We believe Vernon families are ready for something different – a school rooted in nature, mindfulness, and meaningful learning.”

The backers of the proposed independent school said they plan on offering a “nurturing, hands-on learning environment where curiosity, creativity, and connection with nature guide the day” that would incorporate a Nature Campus and a “Kinderhouse” for preschool aged children, so they were hoping to find an acreage or place with existing outdoor green space for the school.

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They also noted the school be “cellphone free” in order to support “wellbeing and real-world connection.”

The school’s website said it would offers programs in:

Community studies: public speaking, critical thinking, national pride, community involvement, community services

Wellness: coping strategies, physical health, spiritual connection, outdoor education

Nature health: healthy nutrition, “whole body wellness and healing”

World studies: study of cultures and traditions from around the world

Fine arts and performing arts: poetry, music, drama, dance

“An independent school like Vernon Oak Elementary is just what our community needs,” the team stated.

“There’s a growing desire among families for more connection, calm, and creativity in children’s education.”

The founding partners stated they were exploring options for where to put the school in Vernon, noting they were looking at existing buildings, shared community spaces, and properties with usable structures, though also asked local property owners, developers or organizations to help them find the space they need.

The school founders said they hoped to have the Vernon Oak Elementary open and operational by the 2026-27 school year, if they can find a suitable location by then.