JACKSON, Wyo. — At Mountain Academy, learning goes far beyond textbooks and worksheets.
Here in Jackson, students are encouraged to explore, experiment, and experience the world around them, discovering that education truly comes alive when it’s hands-on and rooted in the place they call home. As one parent shared, Mountain Academy is “a school grounded in place-based learning, committed to community, and focused on nurturing problem-solvers and creative thinkers, not just students who can memorize facts,” reflecting the intentional, experiential approach that defines our classrooms and our campus.
Bringing learning to life
One of the most memorable experiences this year started in the classroom, with Spanish lessons. Students practiced greetings and learned how to order at a restaurant. But the real learning happened when they stepped into the community, ordering churros in Spanish at a local bakery for the first time. For many, it was their first time using Spanish in a real-life scenario, and their first churro. Experiences like this show how knowledge becomes meaningful when students can apply it in ways that are fun, practical, and connected to their own lives.
The world as a classroom
Mountain Academy’s location near Grand Teton National Park and other public lands transforms the natural world into a living classroom. Students have the chance to observe wildlife, study ecosystems, and engage with the outdoors in ways that spark curiosity and creativity while building a deep sense of stewardship.
“Place-based learning allows our students to connect what they learn in the classroom with the world around them,” says Chris Bessonette, Head of School. “From the mountains to the local community, every experience becomes a chance to explore, create, and understand in a deeper, more meaningful way.”
The mountains, rivers, and forests become essential teachers, inspiring critical thinking and a lasting love of discovery.
Learning that sticks
What makes Mountain Academy’s approach unique is its focus on connecting knowledge to experiences that matter. Whether practicing a language in the community, exploring the backcountry, or observing how animals adapt to their environment, students aren’t just absorbing facts; they’re forming lasting connections with the world around them.
At Mountain Academy, education is more than a classroom experience. It’s about curiosity, connection, and exploration, learning that students can carry with them far beyond the school walls. One family described it this way: “If you want your child to truly be a child, and to be part of a culture that values the natural world and the lessons it offers, choose Mountain Academy. Here, play and experiential learning take priority over preparation for standardized tests, which I believe is especially critical at a young age. If that resonates with you, then join the Mountain Academy family.” It’s a reflection of a community where childhood is honored, the outdoors is a classroom, and meaningful learning begins with wonder.
Learn more by visiting mountainacademy.org or by calling (307)732 – 7757.
