The Mountain Independent Study program is a home study approach to education for Kindergarten through sixth-grade students located at the Mountain Elementary School site, 3042 Old San Jose Road, Soquel. This program has been a part of the Mountain Elementary School District since 1993. In 2009 the program came under the administration of the SLVUSD Charter School.
Our goals include supporting parental efforts to integrate the learning environment into the home setting, enhancing and integrating the development of each student as a whole human being, and to provide meaningful, active learning which supports real-life experiences.
Mountain Independent Studies creates a bridge between the school and the community. We offer a two day a week enrichment classroom opportunity for all students, as well as providing instruction in art, music, drama, library skills, Life Lab, movement education, and more. We encourage parent involvement through regular parent meetings, field trips, networking, and volunteer opportunities. There is an extensive resource center on site, and our staff meets regularly with each individual family.
To learn more about our program, please call Kim Fleming or Reina Honig at 831-475-6812 ext. 24.
ABOUT THE TEACHER
Maria Anderson Fahrner, Independent Studies Teacher
Education:
BA in History from UC Santa Barbara Elementary Teaching Credential San Francisco State University Masters in Education San Jose State University Foundation Year Waldorf Teacher Training Spacial Dynamics Movement Course graduate
Employment: Head teacher/pre-K Santa Barbara YMCA Preschool Preschool Administrator - Santa Barbara YMCA Mountain Elementary School 1993 - present
Philosophy: I believe that children have unlimited potential and that education should be inspiring and creative. I feel that we all have a deep desire to grow as individuals and be life long learners. I think we learn best in an environment that fosters family wellness, cooperation, and individual growth, while at the same time nurturing a strong social dynamic.
Goals: The future of our global culture requires a deep understanding of ourselves as individuals while at the same time recognizing the need for powerful social cooperation. I hope to continue working with individuals and families to appreciate the similarities that we all share, and the recognition and respect that we all deserve.
