Business Details
49 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Experiential Learning in Bath, OH
At Old Trail School, we believe in cultivating meaningful relationships and immersive learning experiences that empower students to achieve their fullest potential. Our unique approach integrates experiential learning with a strong emphasis on character development, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education from toddler through Grade 8. Nestled on a 62-acre campus within Cuyahoga Valley National Park, we leverage our natural surroundings to create dynamic, hands-on educational opportunities. With an 8:1 student-teacher ratio, our dedicated faculty fosters personalized attention, nurturing both academic excellence and social-emotional growth. Our curriculum is grounded in the latest child development research, ensuring age-appropriate challenges that align with students' cognitive and physical growth stages.We prioritize a whole-child philosophy, recognizing that happy, supported students thrive academically and personally. Our graduates consistently demonstrate exceptional preparedness for secondary education and beyond, evidenced by their success in securing merit-based scholarships and leadership roles. The school's strategic location provides unparalleled access to environmental learning while maintaining proximity to Akron, Ohio. We maintain rigorous academic standards while emphasizing creativity, service learning, and global citizenship. Through partnerships with families and the community, we create a collaborative environment where every child feels valued and inspired to learn.
Services
Early Childhood Programs
Primary School Curriculum
Middle School Education
Experiential Learning
Global Citizenship Programs
Athletics Programs
Arts Education
Summer Camp
Learning Services
Extended Care
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- We maintain an 8:1 student-teacher ratio for personalized attention
- Our 62-acre national park campus enables unique environmental learning
- We integrate social studies and science through hands-on farm activities
- Our graduates consistently earn top academic and leadership recognitions
- We combine latest child development research with traditional values
What people say
Exceptional teachers
Strong community feel
Excellent preparation
Beautiful campus
Personalized attention
Services
Early Childhood Programs
Our toddler to age 5 programs focus on foundational learning through play-based exploration and structured activities. Certified educators create developmentally appropriate curricula that nurture social skills, motor development, and early literacy. The natural campus environment supports sensory learning and environmental awareness.
Middle School Education
Grades 6-8 curriculum prepares students for secondary education through advanced academic challenges and leadership opportunities. Programs include STEM integration, global studies, and creative arts. Students benefit from specialized teachers and personalized learning plans.
Experiential Learning
Our signature approach connects classroom learning with real-world applications. Students engage in environmental science through campus farm activities, conduct field research in local ecosystems, and participate in community service projects that reinforce civic responsibility and practical skills.
Athletics Programs
Competitive sports programs for grades 4-8 include soccer, basketball, and track. Our interscholastic teams emphasize sportsmanship, teamwork, and physical fitness. Coaches focus on skill development and character building alongside athletic achievement.
Summer Camp
Summer at Old Trail offers educational enrichment and recreational activities for children ages 3-13. Weekly themes combine STEM exploration, arts, and outdoor education. The program maintains small group sizes and certified staff to ensure safe, engaging summer learning experiences.
People
Clare McGowan
Literacy and Math Specialist
Recipient of the Catherine Silver McNamara Award, Clare McGowan specializes in differentiated instruction for literacy and mathematics. With over 15 years of experience, she develops individualized learning plans that address diverse student needs while maintaining high academic standards.
Erin McNamara
Director of Experiential Learning
Erin McNamara leads our nature-based learning initiatives. A John Bing Scholarship recipient, she designs curriculum that integrates environmental education with core academic subjects. Her innovative programs connect classroom learning with hands-on experiences in our national park setting.
Meeta Nosrati
Chief Financial Officer
Meeta Nosrati oversees financial operations and facility management. Recognized with the Will Hancock Unsung Hero Award, she ensures efficient resource allocation while maintaining the school's commitment to educational excellence and community partnerships.
Questions
What grades does Old Trail School serve?
We educate students from toddler (18-32 months) through Grade 8, providing continuous developmentally appropriate programming for ages 2-14.
What makes your educational approach unique?
Our experiential learning model combines classroom instruction with hands-on experiences on our 62-acre campus, integrating nature-based learning with academic rigor.
Are there after-school programs available?
Yes, we offer extended care until 6:00 PM and summer camp programs. Our athletics and arts programs also provide after-school enrichment opportunities.
How does the school support different learning needs?
Our 8:1 student-teacher ratio allows personalized attention. Specialized learning services and differentiated instruction support diverse learning styles and abilities.
What college preparatory support exists?
Middle school students receive individualized secondary school counseling. Our graduates consistently gain admission to top preparatory schools with significant merit-based scholarship awards.
Is transportation provided?
We offer bus services from designated locations. Check our website for current transportation routes and options.
Reviews (3)
Dawn Bucceri
Sep 13, 2017
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Old Trail school went above and beyond my expectations. The love for learning grew daily in my daughter. She loved absolutely every about the school from the art program to the tasty lunches. The money spent on the education is worth it. The location of the school is amazing.
Bryon Robinson
Feb 06, 2017
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This school has been the best thing for my sons education. Not only has he been challeged educationally but he has made many great friends.
Dave Heater
Aug 23, 2013
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Old Trail is a top-notch private school. We live in the Hudson school district, which has a great reputation. But Old Trail is much more nurturing and reinvigorates the child's love of learning. I highly recommend making the forward investment in your kids by giving them the Old Trail experience.
