A BETTER WAY TO LEARN
Leelanau’s rich, supportive environment is a community where teachers love to teach and the focus is on how to learn, rather than what to learn. We are a haven for intelligent and creative students: the bright, the talented, the inquisitive who may also feel unchallenged, restless, and anxious.
Experiential Learning
Academics
Academics at The Leelanau School go beyond hands on. We engage all your senses in learning to include kinesthetic, visual, and verbal learning. Through our methods, students are immersed in the learning experience. When you go out to collect data from the Crystal River for Biology class, you will not only be asked to note what the instrumental readings are, but also what you observe through sight, sound and smell.
Music, Visual Arts & Theater
At The Leelanau School creativity is encouraged and students are welcome to explore each arts discipline. Parents are often amazed that their “non-singing” child has a beautiful voice or that their camera shy child feels perfectly comfortable on the other side of the lens!
You don’t have to come with a talent, we will help you discover and develop your talents.
Health, Wellness, & Nutrition
The Leelanau School feels that students need to develop healthy lifestyles for their lifetimes. Our overall wellness program is designed around this premise by providing activities and guidance.
We are back for Second Semester, and Mr. Pina means business! 😂 #abetterwaytolearn #JoyfulLearning #theleelanauschool ... See MoreSee Less
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Go Pina!
"The Leelanau School has been a great experience for my son. He was struggling and we didn’t feel like his previous school had the resources for someone who might not excel in a traditional learning environment. The Leelanau School’s focus on hands-on learning and the individual student has been a life changing thing for my child. He is engaged and challenged, and my wife and I feel more involved than ever in his education, despite our child being away from home. We’re grateful to be part of the Leelanau family!" David K., current Leelanau School parent #thepeopleofleelanau #theleelanauschool #abetterwaytolearn ... See MoreSee Less
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Our hearts are full of love and gratitude for our extended Leelanau School family! 💛 WAY TO GO 🧡 LUV U FAM 💜 GOAT ❤️ HAPPY 2GTHR ... See MoreSee Less
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“For some neurodivergent students, school is not a sanctuary for learning. It’s perceived as a source of constant stress, triggering physical symptoms like stomachaches, headaches, and even nausea. These children may wage a miserable battle to stay home each morning or have trouble remaining in school throughout the day. This isn’t about playing hooky.” - Alana Cooperman, LCSW
Read more about ways to identify and treat this serious matter. Learn more about how The Leelanau School works with students to lessen this anxiety at leelanau.org/signature-programs/daily-schedule/
bit.ly/40zkkO5 ... See MoreSee Less
“Help! My Child Won’t Go to School.”
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School refusal impacts up to 28% of children. It often stems from anxiety associated with ADHD and learning challenges. Follow this three-pronged approach to get your child back into the classroom wit...0 CommentsComment on Facebook
International travel has long been a Leelanau tradition, often during the Winter Term curriculum or Spring Break. Faculty member Elizabeth Blondia talks about these courses/adventures/life experiences for Adrien's Winter Term documentary project. ... See MoreSee Less
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The Leelanau School is currently accepting applications for Fall 2025. We welcome referrals for students and families who are seeking a challenging, creative, safe and community-centered Leelanau experience! Visit bit.ly/4fk2O5H #abetterwaytolearn ... See MoreSee Less
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Profile of a Prospective Student - The Leelanau School
leelanau.org
Prospective Leelanau students and parents share similar values, and common past experiences. They are looking for something more responsive and personally validating. A community can be found at Leela...1 CommentComment on Facebook
Best decision you will ever make as a parent.
There is snow place like The Leelanau School in January! Our snow sports participants had a great Winter Term and not a single trip to the ER! #ohsomuchsnow #crystalmountain #snowtraditions #abetterwaytolearn ... See MoreSee Less
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As we near the end of Winter Term 2025, it's fun to reflect on WHY Leelanau embraces this five-week creative curriculum. Enjoy this footage of senior Adrien (Cold War and Filmmaking When Your Budget is Zero) interviewing faculty member Elizabeth Blondia (Cold War and Hygge) about our wintery stretch of Leelanau learning. ... See MoreSee Less
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Awesome❄️🥰❤️🥰❄️
The Leelanau School is a beautiful and purposeful place to work. Please consider joining our Health Service team in teaching, serving and supporting our students with compassion and care. We are currently seeking an RN to help lead these efforts. Click below to learn more.
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Lead Registered Nurse (RN) (Temporary Full-time) - The Leelanau School
leelanau.org
The Leelanau School is looking for a dynamic and personable full-time and part-time nurses to join our school community starting in Fall 20232 CommentsComment on Facebook
Here you go Katheryn West
Elizabeth Erin