Anothen At a glance
about us
Anothen means from above, from heaven or God, from the first and from the beginning.
The word ‘Anothen’ was carefully chosen to represent the trust we place in God to guide our school, and to honor that with which we have been entrusted. We believe that all children are gifts with limitless possibilities and we strive to be the place they can experience, discover and grow.
Anothen Outdoor Academy is not funded by or affiliated with any church or outside organization. We were founded in 2019 and are a veteran-owned and operated school located in Mansfield, Texas.
Our mission is to provide our students the EXPERIENCE of our natural environment in order to DISCOVER the fundamental concepts necessary to GROW in mind, body and Christ.
An Introduction to Learning Through Play
Programs
Preschool (18 Months +)
In our Preschool Program, we embrace an emergent educational approach that integrates nature-based exploration with structured learning. Our philosophy draws inspiration from the Reggio Emilia and Forest School models, emphasizing experiential learning that fosters a deep connection with the natural environment.
We invite our students to experience the beauty of nature while discovering fundamental concepts that promote growth in mind, body, and spirit.
Our students have ample opportunities to play and grow outdoors while being immersed in enrichment programs. These programs include Spanish, Natural Sciences, Chapel, Arts, Crafts, Stretch-N-Grow and more!
Our program supports students ages 18 months through Pre-K 4.
Bridge (PreK5 + Kindergarten)
A Seamless Transition to Elementary School
The Bridge program is designed as an essential stepping stone for our students as they transition into elementary school. It offers a nurturing, structured environment where children can develop the skills and confidence needed for academic and social success.
Families have the flexibility to choose between a one- or two-year program, depending on their desires, the child's developmental needs or age restrictions.
The Bridge program follows Texas State Standards for Kindergarten, ensuring that students are fully equipped with foundational skills in literacy, math, science, social studies, fine-arts and physical education. In addition to meeting academic benchmarks, the program emphasizes social-emotional development, creativity, and critical thinking, fostering a well-rounded early education experience.
Elementary (1st-6th)
A Foundation for Lifelong Learning
Our Elementary Program at Anothen Outdoor Academy builds upon the strong foundation established in our early childhood and Bridge programs, continuing the joy of discovery through a Charlotte Mason–inspired curriculum that supports thoughtful, independent learning. Using the Alveary curriculum and hands-on programs such as RightStart™ Math, students engage in a rich range of subjects including literature, history, science, geography, Spanish, music, art, sewing and physical education.
Instruction is engaging and experiential, with learning opportunities that extend into our 22-acre campus, where outdoor exploration, gardening, and hands-on scientific inquiry reinforce classroom concepts. Rather than teaching students what to think or prescribing how to think, we focus on laying the mental, moral, physical, and habitual groundwork that enables children to develop thinking for themselves. Alongside academic growth, the program emphasizes discipline, creativity, and practical life skills, fostering well-rounded students who approach learning with confidence, curiosity, and purpose.
Our Campus
Mansfield, Texas
Anothen Outdoor Academy is set on a peaceful and expansive 22-acre campus, intentionally designed to give children the space and freedom to learn, explore, and thrive. Our nature-rich environment is not just a backdrop, but an essential part of daily life at Anothen. From open fields and gardens to wooded areas and outdoor learning spaces, children are invited to move, imagine, and engage with the world around them in meaningful ways. This outdoor setting supports our belief that childhood should be active, wonder-filled, and deeply connected to God’s creation.
Research consistently affirms what educators and parents have long observed—time spent outdoors strengthens children physically, emotionally, and cognitively. Pediatric occupational therapist Angela Hanscom notes that regular outdoor play fosters confident, capable children and supports attention, sensory processing, and emotional regulation. This understanding aligns closely with the educational philosophy of Charlotte Mason, who believed that rich, first-hand experiences in nature are foundational to a child’s development. At Anothen, our campus allows children to experience learning as it was meant to be—active, relational, and rooted in real life—cultivating curiosity, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.
What Sets Us Apart
People-First Approach
Everything we do is built around understanding your needs and helping you succeed—because when you thrive, so do we.
Long-Term Relationships
We’re not just here for the now. We love creating lasting relationships with our clients and growing with them over time.
Proven Process, Flexible Execution
We bring structure where it counts and adaptability where it matters. Our methods are clear, but always responsive.

