The Cicada Institute operates on a platform of authentic, exploratory learning. That is to say, the educators facilitate real-world exploration of a student's natural interests. Throughout each school day, students will pursue organic gardening, mindfulness training, plant medicine, art , lectures from master teachers, workshops presented by members of the community, outdoor activities, and movement exercises. If at any point during the standard offerings, a student becomes moved to pursue a specific area of interest, such as music, he/she/xe can be pulled out of the normal routine and work one-on-one with a teacher to gain the skills needed to actively engage this area of interest (i.e : learn how to read music, study its history, work with a local music shop, compose her own work, etc.)

Student Activities:

Permaculture: Everyday engagement with the planting, tending and harvesting of herbal medicine for our apothecary and nutrient-dense, plant-based foods for our community kitchen.

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Sustainable Building: Daily classes in the safe and effective use of tools and environmentally sustainable materials to build tiny houses, log cabins, treehouses, yurts, cob structures, earthships and more.

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Herbalism- Students receive constant foundational education on skilled plant identification,  effective herbal medicine manufacturing and safe administration of plant-based tinctures, salves, teas and other remedies. 

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Psycho-Education: Students learn how to self-regulate and self-soothe with regular lessons on nervous system regulation and therapeutic self-care techniques.

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Wilderness Therapy: Hikes, sit spots, nature excursions and environmental education are the culture and foundation of student life. We belong as a part and protector of this eco-system and we are in daily symbiotic relationship with mother nature.

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Elder Wisdom: We preserve, respect, serve and protect our elders and their wisdom.

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Mindfulness & Awareness: Routine participation in the many meditative and contemplative arts.

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Nutrition: Students engage in nutrient-dense plant-based meal planning and preparation in our communal kitchen and even take routine shifts serving the other students and staff. 

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Art & Music: Open studios are available for students to access anytime during the learning day for creative break-out sessions and guest lecturers.

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In addition to the regular routine, teens will be invited to attend monthly presentations on bushcraft, entrepreneurship, indigenous music, gestalt therapy, sustainable engineering and equine work.