HMLC’s Educational Path
A clear path for ages 3 to 12.
The Hearts and Minds Learning Community offers a consistent, connected learning journey from early childhood through elementary and early middle years. Families don’t need to worry about what comes next, HMLC’s programs are designed to grow with your child.
In the 2026/2027 school year, we are thoughtfully launching founding upper-grade classes (ages 8–12), intentionally small and supported, for families seeking a strong, values-aligned alternative to traditional schooling.
Why Families Choose a Community School Built to Last
A clear learning path from ages 3 to 12
Choosing a school is about more than the current school year. It’s about trust, continuity and knowing your child will be supported as they grow. HMLC offers a clear, connected learning journey for children ages 3-12, designed so families never have to wonder what comes next.
Our personalized program offers intentionally small classes, mixed-age learning and a long-term vision, so children can stay rooted in the same community, guided by consistent values, year after year, even as the world around them changes.
From early childhood through elementary and early middle years, learning at HMLC is intentionally connected, not siloed by age or grade.
Ages 3-6 Play-based, outdoors-first early learning focused on social-emotional growth, language and early numeracy.
Mixed-age kindergarten
Ages 6-8 Mixed-age Early elementaryFoundations in literacy, math, inquiry and collaboration.
Ages 8-10 Mixed-age upper elementaryReading comprehension, writing process, math, social studies and historical context, independence and problem solving.
Ages 10-12 Mixed-age early middleAdvanced math, critical reading, analytical writing, study skills, geography and cultural studies, logic, social-emotional changes and self-regulation, community service and civic participation.
HMLC’s Lifelong Learning 3-18 Growth Plan addresses future growth and educational opportunities through age 18. Your child doesn’t outgrow HMLC. HMLC grows with your child.
Each stage builds naturally on the one before it.
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HMLC's LIFELONG LEARNING 3-18 GROWTH PLANFamilies often ask: Will HMLC still be here as my child grows?
Our answer is yes, by design!
Programs are built to grow forward each year, not reset.
Upper grades are launched as founding classes, intentionally small and well-supported.
Curriculum, staffing and enrollment are planned in accordance to our Lifelong Learning 3-18 Growth Plan. Growing slowly and strategically HMLC build on family needs and trust without overextending resources.
Smart, paced growth also allows us to refine our educational and administrative processes, better understand the needs of our community at large and build a resilient foundation that can support long-term success.
This ensures stability for families and consistency for children.
What Stays Consistent Every Year
Experienced Teachers
Children learn best when they feel safe and known. Our model prioritizes educator continuity, so relationships deepen over time.
A Clear Educational Philosophy
Outdoors-first
Mixed-age
Curiosity-driven
Academically grounded
Community care
These values do not change as children get older.
A Strong, Caring Community
Students and families grow together in a culture rooted in cooperation, respect and belonging.
What Learning Looks Like Here
Learning Guided by Wonder
Children are natural learners. We design experiences that spark curiosity, invite questions and make learning meaningful and joyful.
Strong Academic Foundations
Literacy, numeracy and critical thinking are thoughtfully scaffolded, meeting Minnesota state standards while honoring individual pacing.
Mixed-Age Learning
Learning alongside different ages builds empathy, leadership, confidence and collaboration. These are skills that matter for life.
Academically Grounded and Standards-Aligned
Our curriculum supports both academic progress and whole-child development, without reliance on screens.
Built on Community Care
Learning flourishes when it is rooted in:
Cooperation rather than competition
Connection to nature
Care for ourselves and one another
The Hearts and Minds Learning Community is gender-inclusive and intentionally designed to center equity, safety and belonging. This commitment is not an afterthought or an add-on, it’s the foundation of everything we do.
Who is HMLC for?
We serve families seeking:
An outdoors-first, screen-free learning environment
Small classes and personalized learning
Mixed-age classrooms
Strong academics aligned with Minnesota standards
A gender-inclusive, equity-centered community
Full-time enrollment or an in-person homeschool supplement
Whether you’re local or planning a move, we welcome families who value learning with heart.
Your Next Step
Choosing a school is a meaningful decision. You don’t have to do it alone.
Explore how learning unfolds across ages 3–12, or schedule a conversation to ask questions and share your child’s needs.
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Not quite ready to decide?
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