Cooperative Membership Program

Sycamores is Village Roots Collective’s middle school program for tweens and young teens who are ready for deeper exploration, growing independence, and meaningful connection. Rooted in our play-based, child-led philosophy, Sycamores offers a project-based learning environment where students engage with big ideas, real-world questions, and hands-on work while building strong relationships within a supportive community.

Learning in Sycamores is organized through 4–8 week thematic units using Project-Based Learning (PBL). Rather than separating subjects into rigid blocks, students explore themes that integrate reading, writing, research, math, science, creativity, and discussion. Through collaborative projects, presentations, and reflection, students strengthen academic skills while developing confidence, ownership, and a sense of purpose in their learning.

A typical day in Sycamores begins with community connection — time to check in, share ideas, and ground the group before diving into the day’s work. From there, students move into longer project blocks, where they research, design, build, write, debate, or create based on the current thematic unit. Learning often extends outdoors, with time spent observing, journaling, problem-solving, or simply taking breaks in nature.

Sycamores is intentionally designed with flexibility in mind. Each class day stands on its own, focusing on a different thematic topic. Students may attend one or two days per week, with no overlap or required “catching up” between days. Each session offers a complete, self-contained learning experience, allowing families to choose the schedule that works best for them.

Afternoons may include focused skill work, creative exploration, collaboration time, or opportunities for leadership and service. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their work, support one another, and contribute to the broader Village Roots community. The day closes with reflection and connection, helping students process their learning and celebrate progress together.

Sycamores supports students as they bridge childhood curiosity with real-world readiness — nurturing thoughtful, capable learners who are connected to themselves, one another, and the world around them.