The Birch School • Rock Tavern, NY • Grades 6 to 12
A smaller school. More room to be themselves.
Discover a nature-based learning community where students are known, learning is hands-on, and families can explore full-time school or part-time homeschool support.
Start with a conversation or a visit. No enrollment commitment required.
Can't make these times? Call 845-645-7772 to set up a private tour.
Two easy ways to get to know us.
Families join us from Goshen, Middletown, Warwick, Newburgh, New Windsor, Montgomery, and across Orange County.
Virtual Coffee Chat
Meet Kate and our team online. Learn how our programs work and ask your questions in a relaxed setting. Cameras optional, no pressure.
- How our mornings, afternoons, and programs work
- Full-time and part-time homeschool options
- Time for your questions
Pick your Friday and you'll get the Zoom link right away.
Wednesday Open House
9 Vance Road, Rock Tavern (New Windsor area), NY 12575
Drop in during Open House hours. No appointment needed.
- See a real school day in action
- Meet our students and staff
- Walk our classrooms, makerspace, and grounds
Looking for a different kind of school day?
Some families are looking for a smaller community, more hands-on learning, stronger relationships, or flexibility alongside homeschooling. You are welcome to come and see whether Birch feels like a fit for your family.
Known as an individual
In a small, mixed-age community, teachers know each student by name, by interest, and by what makes them light up.
Learning through real experiences
Hands-on projects, a makerspace, and time outdoors make learning concrete and memorable.
A community to grow with
Students learn alongside older and younger peers, building relationships and a sense of belonging.
Two ways to learn with us.
Full-Time School
A five-day program combining foundational academic subjects with projects, electives, and community.
Birch Boundless
Part-time homeschool support with opportunities for shared learning and connection.
Not sure which option fits? Explore the programs at a Coffee Chat or Wednesday Open House.
Read our 2026–27 Program Guide.
- Our mornings, afternoons and core program
- Our school building and outdoor spaces
- Assessment, college and career preparation
- What families have to say
What families say.
“Thank you for creating a school environment that feels so deeply centered in humanity and belonging.”
“Everything felt calm, regulated, accepting, and genuinely kind… seeing middle and high schoolers joyfully playing together felt incredibly special and, honestly, rare.”
“The Birch School is the best thing that ever happened for my son… Birch was a complete answer for all of us.”
“We absolutely love the Birch School. Sometimes public school is just not the right fit for your kid…”
“If you want your child not just to learn but to be passionate about going to school every day, you most definitely want the Birch School.”
“The teachers are supportive and flexible, and the student community is welcoming and inclusive.”
A closer look at our setting
Frequently asked questions.
The Birch School serves students in grades 6 to 12, in our middle and high school program.
Still have questions? or join a Coffee Chat.
Save your seat
Tell us a little about your family and which event you'd like to attend. A real person will follow up with the details. No pressure, no hard sell.
Want to join a Virtual Coffee Chat instead? Book your spot here.
Come get to know Birch.
Join us online for a Coffee Chat or stop by a Wednesday Open House to explore whether Birch could be a fit for your family.
Can't make these times? Call 845-645-7772 to set up a private tour.