prov.en.der

Some call it Serendipity.
We are calling it prov.en.der, an English word derived from the latin, praebenda meaning literally: things given, granted or supplied.

sketch Tracie Noles-Ross

As a shepherd might give provender to his sheep -- the word has an undercurrent of the feast, of being cared for, daily bread, even a hint (if you will forgive the allusion to the friendly beasts) of “chewing the cud of ideas" which appeals to us.

It is a fact, somehow, mysteriously, that the food for our growth is in rich and daily supply -- given. prov.en.der’s little piece of "sisterly work" is to draw attention to these things supplied, "whereby teachers shall teach less and students learn more."

We hope prov.en.der will be a sustained and sustaining conversation about this formative power leading to a full human life and all the ways Charlotte Mason said education would unfold if we would only learn to let it. Below are the things that get us out of bed every morning....

To share the wisdom of Charlotte Mason’s Great Recognition and to nurture others in the fine "art of standing aside,” prov.en.der offers person-to–person mentoring, deliberate modeling, and thoughtful expressions of the full human life.

:: person-to-person mentoring:

Pairing our guests with seasoned teachers allows the support and contact necessary to make the Mason beau ideal both comfortable and concrete. Local reading groups known as Outcroppings give members access to a community of learners and qualified leaders to encourage sound practice and organic growth. Directed study plans, hands-on weekends, roundtables, and long-term consulting relationships are all ways we come together to offer grandmotherly support.

:: deliberate modeling:

Through a series of intimate regional retreats, practice school opportunities, summer camps, and internships, members can absorb and mirror Mason's atmosphere and postures.

:: expressions of full human life:

At prov.en.der you’re apt to find us sharing our literary endeavors and keepings, foraging in natural history, music and art either hearthside or in other cultures and climes, or circled round a new handicraft and a pot of tea. If you’re nearby pull up a chair or pull on a pair of walking shoes and join us, or write and tell us where reading Mason is taking you. It is a good road!

why prov.en.der?