Our very active child needed an excellent outdoor education program so he could thrive physically and mentally. For over thirty years I have created and evaluated such programs, and feel so lucky to have found Mayapple School for my son, and to share with others.It is the best program I have ever seen: Melissa West is a loving, caring, outdoor enthusiastic and genius at creating and leading this program that has helped our son love preschool, and build his social and physical skills. We wanted a place where our love of the out of doors and caring for others would be reinforced. Mayapple has done this beyond our dreams, and we are so grateful for all the teachers at the school!

My kids have been at Mayapple 3 years now. They have blossomed into creative, resilient, and endlessly curious outdoor adventurers thanks to the Mayapple place-based child-centered curriculum and extended outdoor time. We have a 15 min drive from Blacksburg, but it has been completely worth it because there is no other comparable program in this area. We are so grateful and blessed to have had this opportunity for our kids!

We absolutely adore Mayapple. The teachers are so loving, patient, & kind. The children spend the majority of their day outside no matter the weather. Theres a creek for them to play in (supervised of course). The outdoor activities are endless!

Having worked in Education and Counseling for 15 years, I have high standards, Mayapple delivers the best preschool experience in the area. Creating Independence while fostering community your child will experience blissful days of discovery and delight.