Smart Diehl Academy
at Kairos
Where Curiosity and Connection Take Root
Welcome to Smart Diehl Academy at Kairos — our nature-based learning campus in Midland, North Carolina.
Here, students and visitors experience learning beyond the walls of a classroom. “At Kairos” is where we slow down, engage our senses, and connect with the natural world. From our WildRoots homeschool program to flexible drop-off days and community field trips, every experience at Kairos is designed to nurture curiosity, creativity, and connection.
Explore our Programs at Kairos
1. WildRoots Nature Program for Homeschoolers
10AM-2PM
Cost: Varies per semester (average $180 monthly)
Ages 12-16 | Tuesdays
Ages 4–7 | Wednesdays
Ages 7-12 | Thursdays
WildRoots is our interdisciplinary, nature-based homeschool program where academics meet adventure. Students explore science, literacy, math, and social studies through project-based learning connected to the natural world.
Learning themes include ecosystems, sustainability, wilderness survival, and hands-on farm skill, garden studies and more— all designed to inspire curiosity and confidence!
2. WildRoots FreeRange
Drop-In Days
Ages 6–10 | Mondays 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Ages 10–15 | Mondays 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Price: $45 per day
FreeRange offers the freedom of a nature school experience without the semester commitment. These 3-hour drop-off sessions blend outdoor exploration, animal care, creative projects, and nature art in an unhurried, open-air setting.
Students can join for a single day or multiple sessions — and parents are welcome to stay or drop off.
3. Field Trips at Kairos
All Age Traditional Field Trips
A hands-on, standards-aligned field trip experience focused on sustainability, animal care, and environmental exploration. Students enjoy interactive learning stations that blend science, social studies, and art.
Unplugged Field Trips (Middle and High School)
An SEL-centered field trip designed to help students unplug, reset, and reconnect through mindfulness, creative expression, and time in nature. These 3-hour sessions support emotional wellness and social-emotional learning in a peaceful outdoor setting.
Adult Field Trips (Special Needs & Community Groups)
A gentle, sensory-friendly field trip option for adults and special needs groups, featuring nature walks, animal interactions, and creative hands-on experiences in a supportive environment.
📄 Download our Field Trip Info one-pager: PDF HERE
About “At Kairos”
Located on seven serene acres in Midland, Kairos features gardens, wooded trails, a pond, and friendly animals — all designed to invite exploration, reflection, and community. It’s a place where learning, growth, and restoration happen naturally.
In addition to our WildRoots and FreeRange programs, Kairos is available as a retreat and event space. The land and facilities can be rented for professional retreats, workshops, team-building experiences, private events, or community gatherings. We welcome partnerships with other nonprofits and mission-driven organizations to make this inspiring space accessible and affordable for programs that align with our values of education, inclusion, and connection.
Whether you’re planning a staff retreat, wellness day, or collaborative community event, Kairos provides a peaceful setting that encourages creativity, reflection, and authentic connection.
