This is a Compass Plant, common in Midwest prairies. It grows as we expect our students to grow. At first, it shows very little outward growth, remaining very small for a couple of years. During that time, it is building a deep, intensive root system up to ten feet below ground.
Then, it begins to shoot up, blooming and reaching a height of ten feet. It can live for over 100 years, providing food and refuge for prairie wildlife.
We help our students develop deep, strong roots in both academic and socio-emotional skills. We watch and guide them as they grow into strong, beautiful plants who will be a vital part of whatever ecosystem they may find themselves in. And as the Compass Plant orients its leaves North-South, guiding prairie dwellers in the right direction, we hope our students will also guide others toward developing more just and inclusive societies, and be part of that work themselves.
Our students will fly away one day like the seeds of another common prairie flower, the dandelion. When they do, we hope they will take with them academic and socio-emotional skills that prepare them to thrive in any future environment. And we hope they’ll have a firm sense of belonging and being deeply loved, and the ability to make others feel the same way. Everything we do at Prairie Song is designed to help them do just that.
Prairie Song Academy 