Driftless Folk School
What is this all about?
When the glaciers bypassed southwestern Wisconsin and the adjacent areas of Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois during the ice ages, they left intact a unique landscape of ridges and coulees, a geological island in the midst of the vast Midwestern plains. Due to the absence of the gravel, boulders, and other glacial “drift” typically left behind in the path of receding ice sheets, this area is known to geologists as the “Driftless Region.” Today, the unique character of this area’s geology and landscape is matched by the character of its culture. Narrow ridges and valleys have impeded the growth of industrial agriculture in this region, opening the way for the development of organic and sustainable farming practices, for the growth of several thriving Amish communities, and for an influx of many people seeking a simpler life in harmony with the land.
At the Driftless Folk School we aim to make the skills and knowledge necessary for such a life more widely available to the people of the Driftless Region and beyond. We are rooted in Vernon County, between the Mississippi and the Kickapoo Rivers at the heart of the Driftless Region. Join us to explore traditional and contemporary strategies for sustainable living, to experience the beauty of the region through the arts and natural history, and to participate in an ongoing dialogue on meaningful issues and ideas in the classroom, in the garden, or over the dinner table.
Learn More About Folk Schools | Building Community in the Driftless Region
Mission of the Driftless Folk School
The mission of the Driftless Folk School is to support healthy, sustainable communities and personal development by providing creative and meaningful educational opportunities and inspiring lifelong learning for individuals and families.
Goals
We strive to accomplish our mission by offering experiences in agriculture, natural history, arts and crafts, and traditions of rural Wisconsin and other cultures. This includes offering:
- practical guidance for farmsteading practices and land stewardship,
- family activities, children’s workshops and childcare,
- traditional and contemporary skills that have proven to be sustainable,
- a context for dialogue and exploration of issues meaningful to human life,
- a noncompetitive and supportive learning environment.
What's New at Driftless Folk School
Soliciting Classes for Fall/Winter 2008-2009
The Driftless Folk School is seeking new and exciting courses for our upcoming Fall/Winter Catalogue, covering the period from October 2008 – March 2009. If you are interested in teaching a class, you can download the instructor application form here.
Spring/Summer Catalogue Available Now
The Spring/Summer 2008 Driftless Folk School Catalogue of Classes is available now. Download the Current Course Catalogue today here. Or email registrar@driftlessfolkschool.org to get one in the mail.
Driftless Folk School Work/Study Program
In 2008, the Driftless Folk School has created an opportunity for individuals to gain a more intensive learning experience through its new work/study program. This 3-6 month term offers the chance to be amongst the progressive community of Vernon County, a beautiful, rural setting in southwest WI. Our work/study position, with a focus on hands-on, non-competitive learning, is a great complement and/or alternative to academic programs, and will be valuable preparation for personal career possibilities. While fulfilling the commitments outlined by the school, individuals will be encouraged and supported in engaging in their own independent study projects (i.e. building a small shelter, maintaining a garden, practicing a craft).
Description of Driftless Folk School Work/Study Position:
As a work/study, you will be asked to work 25 hours/week in a variety of tasks including:
office work
farm chores, general homestead tasks
building projects
assistance to instructors, act as a representative at special events
In return, you will receive:
entry into all desired classes
stipend of $100/month, room/board
involvement in board meetings
connection to a vast network of farmers, builders, artists, educators, etc.
ample time for independent study, personal interests
resources of tools, workspaces
To apply, please contact the Registrar at (608) 637-3550 or download the application form here. Applications considered on a first-come, first-serve basis. Applications for the Summer 2008 season have closed. Please inquire about becoming a Work/Study participant in the Summer of 2009
