What programs do you offer?

We currently offer the following ranch-based programs:

• Mommy & Me Ranchers (18 months–4 years, caregiver attends)
  
• Little Ranchers Club (ages 2.5–5, drop-off)
  
• Ranch Explorers (JK–1st grade, drop-off)
  

Each program is developmentally designed to support confidence, curiosity, and connection through animals, nature, and hands-on learning.

Are your programs drop-off?

Yes. All programs ages 2.5 and up are drop-off.

Parents may remain on site; however, participation during class time requires completion of our Parent Volunteer Orientation and background check.

Are programs held outdoors?

Yes. Silver Sage Ranch School is an outdoor, ranch-based program. Activities take place primarily outdoors, with covered areas used as needed.

Families should dress children in weather-appropriate clothing.

Enrollment & Scheduling

Are programs month-to-month or session-based?

Programs are session-based, with enrollment held for the duration of the session.

Can I switch days or programs mid-session?

Day or program changes are subject to availability and require written notice. Changes are not guaranteed.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Silver Sage Ranch is a California nonprofit public benefit organization. Program payments support instructional staffing, materials, facility operations, and the ongoing care of our animals.

Cancellation Notice

• All programs require 30 days written notice to cancel.
  
• Written notice must be submitted via email and is effective on the date received.
  
• Families are financially responsible for the program through the 30-day notice period, regardless of attendance, illness, travel, weather, or schedule changes.
  

Refunds

• Refunds are not issued for cancellations made within the 30-day notice period.
  
• Registration and enrollment fees are non-refundable and support administrative and program preparation costs.
  

Program Credits

• Any unused portion of enrollment after the 30-day notice period will be issued as a program credit.
  
• Program credits may be applied toward future Silver Sage Ranch programs, including classes, camps, or eligible enrichment offerings.
  
• Credits do not expire, are non-transferable, and have no cash value.
  
• Program credits may not be redeemed for refunds.
  

Policy Consistency

This policy is applied consistently to all families and allows Silver Sage Ranch to responsibly plan staffing, maintain program quality, and provide humane care for our animals in alignment with nonprofit stewardship standards.

Absences & Make-Ups

What if my child misses a class?

Missed classes due to illness, vacation, or personal scheduling conflicts are considered family absences and are not eligible for refunds or make-ups.

What happens if a class is cancelled due to weather?

If a class is cancelled due to unsafe weather conditions:

• No refunds are issued
  
• A make-up class or credit may be offered at the ranch’s discretion, based on availability
  

Modified or shortened classes due to weather are considered held classes.

Weather & Outdoor Learning

Do classes run in the rain?

Yes. Classes may run during light rain or cooler weather and are modified as needed for safety.

If conditions become unsafe, class may be cancelled.

What does a rainy day class look like?

Rainy day classes may include:

• Covered animal observation or care demonstrations
  
• Weather-themed learning activities
  
• Crafts, stories, and sensory play under shelter
  
• Movement and regulation activities
  

Safety is always the priority.

What to Expect

What should my child wear?

• Closed-toe shoes (required)
  
• Weather-appropriate clothing
  
• Clothing that can get dirty
  

Layers are recommended.

Are children required to interact with animals?

No. Animal interactions are always instructor-led and age-appropriate. Children are encouraged but never forced to participate.

How do you support children who are anxious or new?

Our instructors use gentle transitions, predictable routines, and supportive language. Many children settle in quickly as they build trust and familiarity with the ranch environment.

Payments & Charter Schools

Do you accept homeschool charter funds?

We work with select homeschool charters and are actively pursuing additional approvals.

If we are not yet approved with your charter:

• Families must pay out of pocket until approval is complete
  
• Charter funds cannot be applied retroactively
  

Final Notes

Silver Sage Ranch School is a working ranch and nonprofit educational program. Our policies exist to support safety, consistency, and a calm learning environment for all children.