Elementary Enrichment at FernLeaf: Spanish, Music, Arts, and Outdoor Adventures

At FernLeaf Community Charter School in Fletcher, NC, learning doesn’t stop at math, reading, or science. Our elementary enrichment classes give students the chance to discover new interests, express themselves creatively, and build real-world skills that go beyond the traditional classroom.

For our elementary students, enrichment means diving into Spanish, Music, Visual Arts, and Outdoor Adventures (outdoor education)—all of which support FernLeaf’s mission to nurture thoughtful, compassionate, and engaged learners.

A Spotlight on Spanish Enrichment

One of the most exciting parts of FernLeaf’s enrichment program is our Spanish language classes, led by longtime educator Sandra Medellín. With nearly 40 years of teaching experience in both Mexico and the U.S., Sandra brings energy, expertise, and joy to every lesson.

Her approach is simple: learning should be fun! From day one, students are immersed in Spanish through songs, games, stories, and interactive activities that make the language come alive. Younger students practice greetings and colors, while older learners explore vocabulary about family, favorite foods, and cultural traditions from Spanish-speaking countries.

Sandra reminds families that it’s perfectly normal if children say, “I didn’t understand anything in Spanish class today.” That’s actually a sign of growth—their brains are busy absorbing! Over time, students gain confidence, begin to understand naturally, and start using Spanish in conversation.

At FernLeaf, learning Spanish in elementary school is more than just a class—it’s a gift. It opens doors to new cultures, builds empathy, and prepares students to thrive in a diverse world.

Music Enrichment: Expressing Joy Through Sound

FernLeaf’s music enrichment classes help students find their rhythm—literally and figuratively! Whether singing, experimenting with instruments, or learning about global musical traditions, every child gets to express themselves and build confidence through sound.

Families often hear songs carried home, and students beam with pride as they share what they’ve learned. Music at FernLeaf isn’t just about notes—it’s about creativity, self-expression, and connection.

Visual Arts: Creating and Connecting

In our visual arts program, imagination meets exploration. Students paint, draw, sculpt, and create with a wide variety of materials. They don’t just learn art techniques—they learn to see the world differently, express feelings, and tell their own stories through art.

Families love seeing the colorful masterpieces come home—each one a reflection of the creativity and individuality FernLeaf celebrates.

Outdoor Adventures: Learning in Nature

FernLeaf’s Outdoor Adventures program takes learning beyond the classroom walls and into the heart of our beautiful surroundings. Students explore trails, observe ecosystems, and build teamwork through hands-on challenges.

They also take part in student-led citizen science projects, from Creek Week to tracking turtles on our FernLeaf Wilderness Campus. Outdoor Adventures helps students develop resilience, curiosity, and a deep respect for the natural world.

Parents see the difference—kids come home more confident, active, and excited to share what they’ve discovered outdoors!

Enrichment That Matters

At FernLeaf, enrichment isn’t “extra.” It’s what makes our elementary charter school experience so special. By offering Spanish, Music, Visual Arts, and Outdoor Adventures, we give every child the opportunity to explore passions, build meaningful skills, and grow into compassionate, confident learners.

For current families, it’s a reminder of the thoughtful, hands-on learning your children experience every day. For those exploring whether FernLeaf is the right fit, enrichment offers a window into our whole-child, experiential education approach that makes FernLeaf shine.

At FernLeaf, we’re not just teaching students—we’re helping them discover who they are, what they love, and how they can make a difference in the world.