Pop Quiz! Which of the following statements applies to Project Work at Saklan?
A. At the start of a Project, the end product is unknown
B. Project often takes unexpected twists and turns
C. Project is driven by prior experience and curiosity
D. All of the above
The answer, of course, is D—but you knew that already.
Now, go back and reread A, B, and C. This time, replace the word “Project” with “Life.”
That isn’t just a clever switch—it’s the reason project-based learning prepares students so well for life. Through project work, our students are practicing the very skills they’ll use every day: embracing uncertainty, exploring new ideas, and following their curiosity wherever it leads.
That’s what’s been on my mind lately, especially as we turn our attention to this year’s Fund-a-Need. What began as a straightforward plan to update some of our traditional play structures has grown into something much more meaningful, just like a good project.
The shift started with something small: a water spigot installed near the redwoods. That’s all it took. The kids flocked there, drawn by the natural beauty, the water, and the freedom to imagine. What emerged was an impromptu play zone, rich with storytelling, collaboration, and creativity.
Then came a visit from a landscape architect. And just like that, our focus shifted—from replacing monkey bars to reimagining our redwood grove as a nature-based play and exploration space, inspired by the children themselves.
This is what happens when we listen to kids, honor their play, and trust in the process. It’s life. It’s Project. It’s learning in motion.
This year’s Fund-a-Need will help bring this vision to life. With your support, we can transform our redwood grove into a place where imaginations continue to bloom.
Let’s build a space worthy of their creativity.
FRIDAY BLOG 