Hands-on Learning, the Ranch Way.
Ranch School is an equine-assisted learning program where kids connect with the land, care for horses, and build confidence through hands-on experiences on a working ranch.​​
Designed for kids ages 8-12, Ranch School is a non-riding, nature-based after-school program that blends animal stewardship, outdoor exploration, and self-discovery. Children learn through doing: caring for horses, participating in ranch chores, and forming playful, meaningful connections with the land and one another.​​
The Curriculum
Ranch School was originally developed by Jessica Pinto and Stephanie Holdenried—educators and facilitators with deep expertise in equine-assisted learning. This relaunch carries forward their thoughtful curriculum and the core values at its heart: connection, confidence, and care for the natural world.
Week 1 Theme: Forming the Herd; Community; Stewardship ​
​Participants begin by establishing a sense of herd through group agreements, land care, and gratitude practices. This lays the groundwork for community while learning about the reciprocal relationships that sustain ranch life, including our partnership with neighboring Green Gulch Farm.
Week 2 Theme: Awareness
This session builds emotional and physical self-awareness by guiding participants through mindfulness exercises and interactions with horses that emphasize observation, attunement, and presence.
Week 3 Theme: Communication I
Through herd observation and hands-on interactions, participants begin to understand and interpret equine body language, highlighting the richness of non-verbal communication.
Week 4 Theme: Communication II
Participants explore leadership and followership through partner activities and horse leading exercises that emphasize trust, clarity, and the power of quiet presence.
Week 5 Theme: Boundaries I
This lesson introduces the concept of personal and relational boundaries using hula hoops and equine cues, helping students tune into their own space and that of others.
Week 6 Theme: Boundaries II
Through creative games and leading exercises, students deepen their understanding of how to clearly express and respect boundaries in partnership with horses and peers.
Week 7 Theme: Empowerment I: Freedom & Agency
Participants explore the “10 Freedoms” of horse wellbeing while engaging in activities that promote curiosity, sensory exploration, and a sense of choice for both human and horse.
Week 8 Theme: Empowerment II: Liberty & Leadership
Build confidence and relational trust by working at liberty with horses, empowering both themselves and their equine partners through choice-based connection.
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Week 9 Theme: Overcoming Obstacles
All previous skills are woven together as participants co-create obstacle courses and navigate them with horses, reflecting on relational dynamics, shared decision-making, and adaptability.
Week 10 Theme: Integration and Gratitude
The final session offers space for reflection, celebration, and acknowledgment of growth, affirming each student’s contributions and the journey they’ve shared with their herd.
The Instructors
This fall’s programs will be led by Olivia Lowe and Nika Peganoff, under the close mentorship of Jessica Pinto, ensuring a thoughtful continuation of the school’s values, vision, and care.
Meet Olivia
Olivia draws on her experience working with youth in sustainable food systems, school garden programs, and outdoor education, along with her deep love of horses, to help young people build confidence, curiosity, and connection. When she's not at the ranch, Olivia consults mission-driven organizations and equine-centered businesses.
Meet Nika
Nika brings over a decade of experience designing learning environments that foster emotional intelligence, community, and systems awareness. A lifelong horse lover, Nika believes animals are powerful mirrors and teachers. At Ranch School, she helps create inclusive spaces where young people grow in relationship with the land, each other, and the herd.
Join Spring 2025 Ranch School
After submitting your interest form, we will reach out to schedule a brief intake call. This conversation helps us get to know your child, address any questions you may have, and ensure the program is a good fit.