As the Director of Urban Farming & Sustainability at Near North Montessori School, Joe Phillips has dedicated the past 13 years to fostering a profound connection between children and the natural world. His innovative approach to education emphasizes experiential learning, where students engage directly with...
As the Director of Urban Farming & Sustainability at Near North Montessori School, Joe Phillips has dedicated the past 13 years to fostering a profound connection between children and the natural world. His innovative approach to education emphasizes experiential learning, where students engage directly with the environment through hands-on projects. By integrating permaculture principles into the curriculum, Joe empowers students to understand the complexities of ecosystems while cultivating their own vegetable gardens. This not only nurtures a love for healthy eating but also instills a sense of responsibility as they witness the growth of their plants from seed to harvest.
Joe's expertise in life sciences and interdisciplinary teaching allows him to weave together various subjects, creating a rich tapestry of knowledge that resonates with young learners. For instance, through the care of baby chicks and goats, students learn about animal husbandry, biology, and the importance of empathy towards all living beings. His commitment to educational leadership is evident in the way he collaborates with fellow educators to develop engaging, nature-based curricula that align with Montessori principles.
In addition to his hands-on work, Joe is also a passionate advocate for sustainability, often sharing his insights through podcasting and writing. He believes that by equipping children with the tools to care for the living world, we are nurturing not just future stewards of the environment, but also compassionate individuals who understand their role within the larger community. Joe Phillips continues to inspire the next generation to embrace their innate curiosity and responsibility towards nature, ensuring that they grow into informed and engaged citizens.
