The Fairhope Organic School

Where living is learning, and learning is living.

The Marietta Johnson School of Organic Education

A private, non-profit, independent school in Fairhope, Alabama for young learners.

Since 1907, Fairhope Organic School has nurtured children through meaningful learning experiences that honor each child’s natural development — academically, socially, emotionally, and creatively.

learning that grows from the child

“The greatest minds are those able to use the spirit of play in their work.”

Our campus offers foundational early learning, youth enrichment classes, summer camp, and after-school programs in a nature-rich environment where curiosity thrives and a lifelong joy for learning takes root. Our approach emphasizes:

  • Child-led, developmentally appropriate learning
  • Outdoor and nature-immersive education
  • Small class sizes and strong relationships
  • Creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration
  • Emotional well-being alongside academics

Full-Day School

Our “Early Life” and “First Life” programs focus on play, nature, and the joy of discovery to build confident, independent learners.

Community Enrichment

Youth art, clay, yoga, and woodworking classes are open to the public and homeschool families. Field trips, too!

Outdoor Education

Our collaboration with Little Roots offers nature-based Afterschool, Summer Camps, and Outdoor Education for ages 3–15.

What Is Organic Education?

An Organic Approach to Education

Organic education honors the natural rhythms of childhood. Rather than rushing children through standardized milestones, we allow learning to unfold through experience, inquiry, and relationship.

Children are trusted as capable learners and supported by educators who observe, guide, and respond to their individual growth.

COMMUNITY & CONNECTION
Rooted in Community Since 1907

Fairhope Organic School is part of a long-standing tradition of progressive education in Fairhope. For over a century, families have chosen our school for its strong sense of community, respect for childhood, and commitment to whole-child learning.

The Organic Dream for Every Child

A sound, accomplished body, a sympathetic, intelligent mind, and a sweet, sincere spirit

What Parents
Are Saying

  • I have to say I am so grateful to find this school! After some other bad experiences, this school involves me as a parent, and loves my children. My kids are are learning, playing & loving it!
    privateschoolreview.com
    Parent Review
  • This school is committed to providing a well rounded education including pottery, art and wood working to enhance the academic studies. Free spirits, free thinking is encouraged.
    Greatschools.com
    Parent Review

Visit Our Campus

The best way to understand Fairhope Organic School is to experience it.

We invite you to visit our campus, meet our teachers, and see children learning joyfully in nature.

A Day in a Life
Organic Education in Action
nature school fairhope organic alabama
Alumni Spotlights
Reflections From Then and Now: How the Organic School Stays With You

Alumni Stories

Our graduates have become doctors, lawyers, scientists, teachers, writers, artists, engineers, poets, university professors, dance teachers, potters, computer technicians and entrepreneurs in virtually every field of endeavor. Many of the schools graduates, after traveling and working around the world, have come back to Fairhope. Some never left. If you are an Alumni and want to share your Organic School experience with us, please reach out and let us know!

Fairhope Organic School

Growing curious, capable, and compassionate learners