What if learning felt like falling in love? That’s the question at the heart of the Academy for the Love of Learning. This is not just another school. It is a place where the natural love of learning is awakened and nurtured.
The Academy for the Love of Learning was conceived by Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Stern. These two visionaries met in 1971. They dreamed of an institute to promote the joy of learning. The Academy finally incorporated in 1998. This was eight years after Bernstein’s death.
In 2003, the Academy purchased the estate of Ernest Thompson Seton. Seton was a pioneer in wildlife conservation. He also championed nature-based youth education. The Academy began renovating Seton’s former home. It was known as Seton Castle. Tragedy struck on November 15, 2005. A fire destroyed the building during renovation.
The Academy built a new campus. It reflects a commitment to nature. Founder Aaron Stern said the campus embodies awareness of our impact on the world. The campus was completed in 2011. Santa Fe recognized it with a Sustainable Santa Fe award in 2012. This was for its water harvesting system. In 2013, the Academy earned Gold level LEED Certification. This came from the U.S. Green Building Council.
Bernstein and Stern envisioned a culture of learning. This would transform schools and organizations. The Academy offers a Teacher Renewal course. It also provides leadership development. Its El Otro Lado program is a community arts initiative.
The Academy for the Love of Learning seeks to awaken imagination and curiosity. It fosters a sense of purpose and wonder. It inspires critical thought. The Academy also rematriated two Native American creations in Seton’s collection to the tribes to which they belong in 2023.
Here the goal is to awaken, enliven and sustain the natural love of learning in people of all ages. This campus stands as a testament to that vision. It reminds us of the power of learning and the importance of our connection to the earth.