Three decades of nature-based learning in the Northwoods.
Elemental Roots E.D.U. grows from a deep foundation of place, partnership, and purpose. Our story is rooted in the belief that children flourish when learning happens where nature, community, and curiosity converge. We see the Northwoods not as a backdrop for education—but as a living classroom and a partner in every child’s growth.
From Terri’s Treehouse to a Charter School
Our journey began with Terri’s Treehouse Early Learning Center, a nationally accredited, 5-Star YoungStar early learning campus known for its immersive, play-based approach. With three buildings, four playgrounds, and a 100 × 100 foot outdoor classroom, it set the stage for what Elemental Roots E.D.U. would become.
Building on over 30 years of nature-based learning success, Elemental Roots now extends that vision as a public charter school serving ages 4–11. We continue the same deep respect for nature, community, and creativity—now within a framework that is tuition-free, academically aligned, and open to all.
Before designing Elemental Roots E.D.U., we asked families, educators, and community members across the Northwoods what they value most in education. Their message was clear: children thrive when learning is hands-on, connected to nature, and rooted in community.
This assessment captures those voices and the data that inspired Elemental Roots — from parents calling for more experiential, project-based learning to the overwhelming support for a public, tuition-free charter option in our region
A Culturally Responsive and Community-Driven Foundation
At Elemental Roots, learning begins with relationships—with people, place, and the natural world. Our adaptive elemental curriculum is intentionally designed to be inclusive and responsive to the cultural and ecological heritage of our region. It integrates indigenous ways of knowing, intergenerational wisdom, and environmental stewardship to create a learning experience that honors every child’s identity and sense of belonging.
We believe that education should reflect the community it serves. By grounding students in both local traditions and universal principles, we nurture citizens who understand that learning and living are inseparable from caring for the world around them.
Our Place in the Northwoods
Set amid one of the most diverse lake and forest ecosystems in the world, Elemental Roots draws daily inspiration from its surroundings. The Northwoods landscape—its seasons, wildlife, and waterways—shapes the rhythm of our curriculum and the spirit of our school.
Students learn science by exploring ecosystems, math by measuring what they build, and writing by reflecting on what they see. Here, nature isn’t an add-on—it’s our co-teacher.
Partnership and Community
We believe education is a collective act. Elemental Roots partners with conservation biologists, tribal educators, artisans, and local organizations to weave real-world context into every project. These relationships model reciprocity, collaboration, and civic responsibility—values that anchor both our curriculum and our community.
Through service learning, mentorship, and shared celebration, our students grow to understand that strong roots make for strong communities.
“Learning here is about connection—between people, place, and purpose. The forest, the garden, the classroom, and the community all work together to help children grow.”
Verified by the Wisconsin Resource Center for Charter Schools
In November 2025, the Wisconsin Resource Center for Charter Schools (WRCCS) formally recognized Elemental Roots E.D.U. for completing a high-quality charter school design process through their Design Team Stipend program.
The WRCCS team commended Elemental Roots for its strong foundation, thoughtful planning, and commitment to building an exceptional learning experience for students in the Northwoods.