Our PK & Jr K TTh classes are FULL for SY24-25; however, some schedule flexibility may occur. Please complete the application below to determine availability

We still have a few spaces available for Elementary on all days offered for SY24-25.

Want to join the list for 2025-26? Fill out the application to get on the list

After you’ve submitted your application, you will have the opportunity to register for our Open House events or tours

Application Process

If you feel that River Gorge Forest School may be right for your child and would like to apply, please complete the online application form. Once your application is submitted, we will respond within 2 weeks with more information.

For families applying for multiple children, please use one application. Please use the additional child space to list any additional children, include birth date and class.

Before applying please read the FAQ page.

If you’re applying for SY25-26, we will hold Open House events in late fall/early winter. To get on the invite list for an Open House event, please submit an application. We will offer tours to interested families if space is available in the requested class.

New Family Application

Parent Name *

First Name

Last Name

Email *

Most communication will be done through email

Phone *

We promise we will not spam you!

(###)

###

####

Child's Name *

Address *

Child's Birthdate *

YYYY

School Year to Join RGFS *

2024-25

2025-26

2026-27

Class Applying *

Select one

Elementary M-F (all-day)

Home School Elementary 2x/wk (all-day)

Home School Elementary 3x/wk (all-day)

Kindergarten M-F (all-day; must be 5 by 12/31)

Kindergarten 2x/wk (all-day; must be 5 by 12/31)

Kindergarten 3x/wk (all-day; must be 5 by 12/31)

Preschool M-F (Mornings)

Preschool M, W, F (Mornings)

Preschool T, Th (Mornings)

Jr Kindergarten M-F (afternoons)

Jr Kindergarten M, W, F (afternoons)

Jr Kindergarten T, Th (afternoons)

Preschool + Jr K M-F (all-day)

Preschool + Jr K M, W, F (all-day)

Preschool + Jr K T, Th (all-day)

Please tell us a little bit about your child (temperament, attitude, interests, etc.) *

Tell us a bit about your child's educational experiences *

Share your child's previous school experiences

We want your child's educational experience to be the best and to meet their needs. Does your child have any developmental or behavioral issues or concerns? *

Why are you interested in outdoor education for your child? *

Do you have another child who would like to apply? *

Yes

Enter Child 2 information

Enter the details for child 2 (age, class applying for, birthdate)

Any Additional Information *

Parent Agreement *

I understand that River Gorge Forest School experience requires active parent participation and support at home. We want our students to be as healthy as possible and that includes a healthy environment at school and at home. I will make sure my child is well-nourished and well-rested every day and will participate in parent meetings and weekend events at the school as often as possible. I understand that the school curriculum is experiential and seasonally- and nature-based. RGFS is child-directed and includes music, art, social interaction and exploratory play. All teachers are trained in nature/outdoor education. I am aware that RGFS is totally nature-based, and children will be outside in all weather conditions, except severe weather conditions. I am committed to providing my child appropriate clothing for the weather conditions. I understand that RGFS is NOT appropriate for children who do not follow instructions. Children will also be allowed an unusually wide range of physical experiences including going to the bathroom outside. I understand that the admissions process includes a school tour for parents and children to attend together to determine if RGFS is a good fit for everyone before final enrollment forms are signed. I understand that this application is NOT a contract, and I will expect to hear from the Director of Enrollment to register my family for a school tour. And if all spaces are full, my child will be placed on a waiting list.

By checking this box I acknowledge the above, have read, and understand this form

Parent Signature *

Electronic Signature: By typing your name here, you are signing this form electronically. You agree your electronic signature is the legal equivalent of your manual signature on the form.

Thank you! Please sign up to attend an Open House to meet with us in person and ensure RGFS is the right fit for your family.

Cheers,

RGFS Family

Need some more information before joining us in the forest?

Programs

Questions

Tuition

River Gorge Forest School | Suck Creek Road Chattanooga, TN 37405 | hello@rivergorgeforestschool.com

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