A Message from the Campus Leader

Campus Leader

Clonlara School – Ann Arbor

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Clonlara School.

We have a 55-year history here in Ann Arbor, but we are also building something new. You can feel it when you walk into our peaceful, plant-filled school. As I write this, one group of students is researching solar eclipses, another student is planning book reviews with a mentor, and another group of students is joyfully playing.

At Clonlara, we believe that learning can happen anywhere there is a curious mind: at home, here at school, on bus trips to downtown Ann Arbor, and wherever our interests take us. We believe school should be a healing, joyful space where students can follow their interests while connecting with the surrounding community.

We strive to make Clonlara a loving, welcoming community, with strong relationships at the core. Parents are invited to participate as important partners in their students’ education. Students from different classes come together regularly during projects, field trips, and all-school meetings. Teachers get to know all campus students, not only those in their class.

As we prepare for the 2024–2025 school year, we look forward to welcoming high schoolers back onto campus! It’ll be an exciting year, and we hope that you join us.

Warmly,
Susan Kinsky
Ann Arbor Campus Leader

Our Core Beliefs

At Clonlara School, we believe:

Learning begins with curiosity;
Children learn best when their interests guide their activities;
Parents have the right and ability to educate their own children;
The world is our classroom, and the learning environment is integral to the learning process;
A school should allow its students to participate in the design and application of the curriculum;
Academic learning and the mastery of skills are not limited by the location in which they are sought, either in a school or at home;
Our approach to education leads to a lifelong love of learning.

Full Circle Learning

From kindergarten through 12th grade, each Clonlara student learns through a personalized approach called “Full Circle Learning.” This research-supported model encourages students to formulate questions and discover answers about subjects that capture their attention, leading them to deeper understanding.  

The model is inclusive and applicable to all age groups and learning styles. 

Clonlara Families

Learning is an adventure, and family is a big part of it! At Clonlara, family involvement is welcomed and celebrated.

Clonlara teachers work closely with families to understand their goals and guide them on their learning journey. Families are invited onto campus frequently for parent coffee chats, open houses, and volunteer opportunities. We also have a comfortable parent lounge available for families who’d like to remain on campus for any portion of the school day.

Ann Arbor Community

Clonlara views the wider community as an extension of the classroom. Field trips to local museums, libraries, and parks are regularly integrated into our school week. Students learn life skills like how to ride the city bus, how to pay at a restaurant, and how to interact with community members of all ages and walks of life.

Global Learning Community

More than a school, Clonlara is a global learning community with students in more than 60 countries and services provided in six languages. Ann Arbor campus students connect with our global community through virtual events and clubs.