Our Mission: To provide Brainerd Lakes Area families a choice for quality elementary education centered around the individual needs of the child with a focus on the environment.

Discovery Woods has been assigned the school district number 4198 by the MN Department of Education. Discovery Woods School is considered an independent public school district run by its own school board.

Our Vision: Discovery Woods is dedicated to educational excellence, environmental stewardship, and personal growth. Our students will have the foundation to be critical thinkers and responsible citizens.

Welcome!

Discovery Woods School
FREE K – 6th grade Charter School
Tuition-based Preschool

Discovery Woods is a free public K-6 charter school. We also offer a tuition-based preschool for ages 3-5.

Evidence-based instructional practices are implemented to maximize student success across all grade levels.

Montessori elements are used mostly in the preschool but is woven into the K-1 classrooms as well.

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Curriculum

Evidence-based Instruction

Explicit

Sequential

Scaffolded

Multimodal

Spaced Review

Knowledge-building

Guidance & Support

K-6 classrooms use an English language arts and math curriculum.

The Discovery Woods Preschool and K-1 Classrooms also incorporate Montessori elements.

Environmental
Education (EE)

EE Projects & Participation

Environmental Education is a big part of our mission. Across grades K-6, environmental education projects are incorporated. Students learn about how trees adapt throughout the seasons, animal habitats, biomes, and energy conservation. Students enjoy outside learning time throughout the year. In addition, the 6th graders can participate in the school's Green Team to help collect and track recycling.

Parent Testimonials

Parent of a 4th and 6th grade student.

“Discovery Woods goes above and beyond for children by creating meaningful, hands-on experiences that both engage and educate in ways that spark curiosity and confidence. Through thoughtfully designed activities, interactive learning environments, and creative lessons, they make education feel exciting and accessible rather than overwhelming. What truly sets Discovery Woods apart is their commitment to supporting each child as an individual, recognizing that every learner has unique strengths, challenges, and academic needs. Staff take the time to observe, encourage, and adapt their teaching so children receive personalized guidance, whether they need extra support in certain subjects or enrichment to stay challenged. By blending nurturing care with intentional instruction, they help children grow academically while also building independence, self-esteem, and a genuine love for learning.”

Parent of 2 students in 1st grade.

“Discovery Woods has been the best switch for my kiddos! The learning environment is great, the teachers are friendly and make our entire family feel comfortable.”

Parent of a 2nd-grade student.

“The teachers have always had good communication with me about my student, whether an issue or praise.”