Curriculum & Instruction

At Evergreen Learning Pod, we don’t follow a boxed or one-size-fits-all curriculum. Instead, we build learning experiences around Oregon State Standards, our students’ interests and ideas, and our commitment to real-world learning.

Each quarter, we focus on a theme that guides our lessons and projects:

  • Quarter 1: Community

  • Quarter 2: The Natural World

  • Quarter 3: Looking at Our Past

  • Quarter 4: Planning for Our Future

We explore these themes through big questions, hands-on learning, and meaningful conversations. Students are encouraged to think critically, reflect on what they're learning, and make connections between subjects and the world around them.

All students receive daily instruction in reading, writing, and math aligned to their grade level, and adapted to how they learn best. Science and social studies are integrated into these subjects so that learning feels connected and relevant.

Our Three Program Options

No matter which program you choose, Evergreen is a place where students are seen, supported, and encouraged to grow—academically, socially, and creatively. Click below to explore program curriculum.

  • Focuses on strong academic foundations in reading, writing, and math. Lessons are structured and theme-based, with science and social studies included through books, discussions, and short activities. This program supports traditional academic growth while still leaving space for student input and curiosity.

  • Includes everything in the Core Program, with added time each afternoon for a creative, student-led project. These projects allow students to take a deeper dive into their personal interests within the quarterly theme.

    Each project gives students the opportunity to explore big ideas more fully and express what they’ve learned through a format that feels meaningful to them. Projects are designed with voice and choice in mind and may take the form of:

    • Illustrated storybooks

    • Short films or media presentations

    • Visual art or design work

    • Science investigations or models

    • Speeches or interviews

    • Informational displays

    • Creative writing or journaling

    • Maps, timelines, or posters

    • Skits, spoken word poetry, or dramatic reenactments

    Students are supported through brainstorming, planning, and presentation. These projects help build confidence, critical thinking, and communication skills while keeping learning fun and engaging.

  • Our most immersive option includes everything in the Core and Core + Projects programs, with added time and support for a long-term, student-designed Impact Project. This is a deeper exploration into a real-world issue, question, or topic that students care about, aligned with the quarterly theme.

    Impact Projects are student-led and emphasize:

    • Independent and collaborative research

    • Real-world relevance and inquiry

    • Creative and critical thinking

    • Planning, decision-making, and problem-solving

    • Action—students take steps to raise awareness, propose a solution, or make a difference in their community or environment

    Students reflect regularly on their learning and progress, document their process, and present their final work at a quarterly Family Showcase. Projects might include:

    • Community awareness campaigns

    • Inventions, models, or prototypes

    • Documentaries or interactive media

    • Storytelling, theater, or visual art

    • Service-based initiatives or advocacy work

    • Research presentations and solution proposals

    These projects empower students to connect learning to the world around them and build key skills for the future—confidence, independence, empathy, and a sense of purpose.