Daily Schedule

Pacing & Rhythm

Volo’s daily schedule carefully articulated rhythm and an adaptable design responds to changes, conditions, and learners’ needs. The general daily pace and rhythm are outlined below. Note that Volo is committed to responding to the needs of the participating young people. We strive for balance between stability and flexibility, recognizing that both rhythm and adaptability are important. The daily schedule shown here may be adjusted if needed.

After care is possible, from 3-5 PM. We are currently trying to understand demand for it. Please reach out if you would like to enroll in Volo but need aftercare.

Scandinavian School Days

Volo draws inspiration from Scandinavian schools. We have found results like theirs – generally productive, happy students who learn remarkably well — from shorter days with student-centered education.

School in Finland, Norway, and Sweden (and Volo) tend to have shorter days than schools in the US. Why?

Focus on deep learning, not seat time. Quality over quantity. More effective, student-centered strategies mean fewer hours in the classroom. This is especially true where then is a lot of individual time with the teacher (as at Volo).
More time for play and rest. Frequent breaks and play help children process information better. This aligns with research on cognitive load.
Whole child approach. School is part of life. Shorter days make room for family time, other activities, and self-directed learning.
Focusing on fewer tasks per day allows more meaningful engagement.
Trust in teachers and students.
Less focus on standardized testing. Norway has no national testing below 5th grade, and when older students take national tests, it is done for diagnostic purposes, not as high-stakes assessments.
Teaching strategies are designed for developmental stages, with more structured, demanding approaches in the older grades.

Why are US school days often so long daily and why are there so many in the year?

The US school system evolved around industrial models favoring long, grueling work days.
There’s a greater emphasis on test performance in the US.
US Schools often serve as providers of childcare and community services, which stretches the school day.
There is a greater emphasis on covering many subjects, topics, and activities. Teachers struggle to find time to fit in everything.
Tradition

And the result? Students in Finland, Norway, and Sweden generally perform as well or better than US students on international standardized tests, despite having shorter school days and a more play-oriented approach to learning.

Monday - Thursday: The Luminary

The Luminary is Volo Natural Learning Community’s flagship program, designed to provide proven learning experiences for whole human beings. It represents the culmination of years of experience with thousands of students and teachers in diverse settings across the country and internationally. The Luminary offers a personalized alternative to traditional schooling, connecting a small, multi-aged group of learners with extraordinary teachers (facilitators) and life-changing learning experiences. Participants spend more than half of their time outdoors, engaging in a curriculum that integrates math, writing, reading, science, movement, art, and music daily. The program nurtures curiosity and creativity, allowing students to choose and lead projects within the community, fostering leadership and problem-solving skills. Governance includes developmentally sensitive opportunities for student leadership, ensuring that each learner’s journey is guided by Volo’s core principles: personal agency, nature, and community.

Fridays: The Quest

The Quest is Volo’s dynamic Friday program where young explorers aged 7–15 embark on outdoor adventures, engage in creative arts, and participate in community service projects. Participants enjoy age-appropriate activities that foster creativity, leadership, and a love for learning. Join us for a Friday filled with fun, friendship, and discovery!