Tennessee counterpart .
Since its inception in 2017 , The Cedar House has grown into a beloved educational haven for homeschool families . Originally hosted on another farm in Greenville , it found its permanent home in 2019 on the Speir family ’ s working farm where Samantha and her husband , Chad , now run the program full-time .
Unlike a traditional homeschool co-op , The Cedar House operates as a tutorial . Parents drop off their children for one or two days a week , paying tuition for structured learning sessions that run from September through May . With around 60 students attending each class day , the program accommodates children as young as 5 up through high school seniors – offering a wide array of educational opportunities .
What sets The Cedar House apart is its emphasis on outdoor education . The program integrates farm life with a diverse curriculum , immersing students in handson experiences such as farm chores , gardening , nature science and survival skills .
“ Students rotate through farm responsibilities , caring for miniature donkeys , cows , ducks , chickens and goats ,” Samantha said . “ They milk cows , feed and groom animals and learn basic homesteading skills like making butter , cream and homemade laundry detergent .
In nature science classes , students engage in interactive lessons about ecosystems .
“ This year , they are studying wetlands and learning about the medicinal properties of plants like cattails ,” Samantha said . “ They journal , watercolor , build structures and play educational games to deepen their understanding of the natural world .”
The program also includes a tinkering and building class where children develop practical skills with tools , constructing birdhouses and other projects . Survival classes teach essential outdoor skills such as knot tying , fire building and orienteering .
Each day at The Cedar House begins with a time of worship and devotion .
“ Students gather at an outdoor stage to sing hymns , reflect on scripture and learn about God ’ s love ,” Samantha said . “ Faith is woven throughout the curriculum , reinforcing the program ' s mission to honor the Creator while exploring His creation .”
All teachers at The Cedar House are dedicated mothers who are fully trained and vetted . Their passion for teaching and commitment to the children make them the heart and soul of the program . And the structure encourages mentorship , with older students helping younger ones , fostering a family-like atmosphere where responsibility and leadership are cultivated .
The program attracts families from across North Texas – including Dallas , Richardson , McKinney , Rockwall , Royse City , Sulphur Springs and Bonham . Though Samantha wishes for greater local participation from Greenville families , the community continues to grow through word-of-mouth and social media outreach . With seven teachers guiding the students each day , The Cedar House ensures a nurturing environment where children can
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